1998 St. Huberts Chardonnay

Notes sourced from Mildara Blass.

Grapes for the 1998 St Huberts Chardonnay came exclusively off the estate's own vineyards in the Coldstream sub-region of the Yarra Valley in Victoria. All the fruit achieved optimum ripeness where the grapes were picked at between 12.5 degrees and 13.5 degrees Baume. This wine was built on the fine fruit flavours for which this excellent vineyard is known.This wine was initially fermented as settled clear juice in stainless steel, before being transferred to French oak for barrel fermentation and maturation. Many winemaking techniques were used in the making of this wine including oxidative handling, extensive lees stirring and whole bunch pressing. The wine spent 8 months in a combination of new and seasoned 100% French oak, thereby increasing overall complexity. Partial malo-lactic fermentation was encouraged in oak.This Chardonnay is a classic example of cool climate style and finesse. Judicious use of high quality French oak and other Burgundian techniques have resulted in a wine of undoubted class.The 1998 vintage has produced a premium, dry, full-bodied white wine with a fine structure. The colour is mid straw with hints of vibrant green. On the nose there is intense white peach, spice, melons and lime/citrus, as well as subtle savoury oak aromas. On the palate there are rich varietal Chardonnay flavours that have integrated well with the creamy texture and flavour and the elegant, balanced French oak. The finish is very long with a rich, creamy texture, complex fruit flavours and well balanced acidity. Cellar up to 5 years. 13.0% alcohol volume