2023 Derwent Estate Chardonnay 750ml

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Overview

Derwent Estate Chardonnay is a cool-climate expression from Tasmania's Derwent Valley. Picked early in the flavour spectrum to retain finesse, the 2023 combines white peach and citrus fruit with subtle oak, spice and oatmeal characters, supported by fresh acidity and a smooth, creamy texture.

Vineyard

The Chardonnay comes from a north-facing bank of the Derwent River. The 28-year-old cool-climate vineyard has supplied fruit for Penfolds Yattarna for 13 consecutive years. Permeable loam soils over limestone contribute intensity and aromatic delicacy, with plantings comprising I10V1, I10V5 and Penfolds clones.

Winemaking

The fruit was picked early in the flavour spectrum to maintain finesse and whole bunch pressed under inert gas. The first and last press fractions were separated, with pristine juice from the middle of the press cycle transferred directly to French oak, 25% new. Primary fermentation used a combination of cultured and natural yeast. No sulphur was added during maturation in oak, with fortnightly lees stirring and 100% malolactic fermentation in spring. The wine was filtered before bottling.

Producer Tasting Notes

Derwent Estate: “Delicate fruit notes enhanced by a hint of oak. Balanced acidity creates a smooth, creamy texture. This traditional Chardonnay shines when enjoyed with food.”

Colour: “Straw”

Bouquet: “White peach, nutmeg/spice, butterscotch”

Palate: “White peach, citrus fruits, oatmeal”

Specifications

• Vintage: 2023
• Grape Variety: Chardonnay
• Region: Derwent Valley, Tasmania, Australia
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• pH: 3.16
• Acidity: 6.75
• Residual Sugar: 0
• Vine Age: 28 years
• Clones: I10V1, I10V5 and Penfolds
• Soil: Permeable loam over limestone
• Pressing: Whole bunch pressed under inert gas
• Fermentation: Cultured and natural yeast fermentation in French oak
• Oak: French oak, 25% new
• Lees: Fortnightly lees stirring
• Malolactic Fermentation: 100%
• Cellaring Potential: 15 years