2021 Les Fruits Collines Chardonnay

WINEMAKER: Tim Stock
VARIETAL: Chardonnay
REGION: McLaren Vale/Adelaide Hills, SA
VITICULTURE: Biodynamic

Two thirds McLaren Vale Chardonnay from Top Range high above the Vale on the border with the Adelaide Hills GI, with the balance early picked Piccadilly Valley fruit. Naturally fermented and aged in the same barrels.

Pale bronze straw with a softness thanks to the lack of fining and filtering. The nose reflects the colour with orchard fruits of apple, yellow apricot and peach; skins bronzed in the sun. The time in old barrel on lees has imparted background notes of cream, spice and almond meal. Pretty much ‘same same’ to taste but perhaps the oxidative handling showing more of the bronzed (not bruised) fruit expression and layers of complexity.

Early season yellow peach and orange with lightly spiced apple and almond milk wash the palate before the citrus acidity blasts out the back creating a deep throat crescendo of fresh cut apple with a squeeze of lemon. Just keeps going and going! Complex savoury Chardy in a style not seen usually at this price. 12.2%

Renowned importer and industry favourite Tim Stock also makes some seriously good wine. Working out of the Commune of Buttons shed in the Basket Range, Tim strives to produce savoury, terroir-driven wines that speak of place.