Kinross Growers Series - 'Willowbell Vineyard' Queensberry Chardonnay 2024

Varietal: Chardonnay

Vintage: 2024

Country: New Zealand

Harvest Date: 04/04/24

Region: North Otago

Sub Region: Queensberry, single vineyard

Alcohol: 14%

Residual Sugar: <1G/L (Dry)

Maker: Pip Battley & Austin Black

Hand-picked Chardonnay was 100% whole bunch pressed, then aged 8 months in 22% new French oak with full malolactic fermentation. Bottled unfined to preserve texture and purity. Only 2,400 bottles produced from the 2024 vintage.

The secret of Queensberry lies in the unique pigburn soils formed by glacial activity during the ice age, creating an ideal foundation for grape cultivation. These soils possess a diverse and complex composition, nurturing vine growth and grape production. The surrounding hills and mountains create a protective microclimate, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and develop concentrated flavours.

Temperature variations, abundant sunlight, and cool nights contribute to the wines' exceptional balance and distinctive flavour profiles.

This wine has an intriguing nose of peach, orange lemon and ripe quince, white florals and a little crystallised ginger, anise and honey. Ripe peach and orange citrus and crisp green apple dominate the palate, with warming oak notes of subtle smokiness.

A beautiful textural mid palate drives towards a long and complex finish.

A very layered wine, with weight throughout the palate and a lively acid backbone.

Open the bottle just before service at 14 - 16 degrees Celcius

Enjoy it today and up to 2030.

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