Nose
A dramatic and powerful nose that is constantly evolving in
the glass. Amongst the descriptors are sublime fragrant citron
and baby pineapple,while wild notes of lamb's fat and struck flint
provide a beguiling complexity that lift the floral and spice fruit
perfume and frame a stunning Heytesbury Chardonnay nose.
Palate
Super fine, textured and succulent with impeccable
balance and poise driven by seamless natural acidity. Juicy white
nectarine and preserved lemon puree form a strong fruit core
which is embellished with flavours of spicy oak, lanolin and flint.
Exhibits that wonderful and rare quality; power with restraint.
Growing Conditions
Moderate spring conditions in 2009 allowed for better flowering
and fruit set than experienced in the previous two years.
Consistent warmth through January/February ensured ideal
ripening conditions.
Winemaking
Small batches were selected from the finest sections of our best
vineyards and clones. Each batch was very gently pressed and
the juice then transferred to barriques with the inclusion of some
solids to achieve more intense ferment characters and palate
weight. Each batch was fermented 'wild' with no yeast addition
and was stirred throughout the nine months of maturation,
allowing the yeast lees to impart further complexity, texture and
palate weight to the wine. With bright, natural acidity a priority,
no malolactic fermentation was encouraged, though a small
amount occured in 2010.
Appearance
Brilliant, bright straw with a faint green edge
