2008 Paradise IV Chardonnay

Winemaker Douglas Neal worked with Rick Kinzbrunner for 13 vintages at Giaconda in both the winery and vineyard and Rick’s influence can certainly be seen in this Chardonnay. In 2006 Douglas Neal established a partnership with Graham and Ruth Bonney of Moorabool Estate and set about instigating a number of changes. The Vineyard trellising was turned to VSP, yields were cut, and winemaking became as minimalist as possible. And finally the labelling was changed to Paradise IV.

A Chardonnay showing considerable complexity. The wine was matured in combination of 35% new French oak, 55% older French oak and 10% stainless steel. There was no stirring or racking and the wine sat on its lees for 10 months prior to bottling to develop the flavour profile and add complexity.

Bright straw colour with pale gold hue. Complex nose – aroma of yeast lees, biscuit, hazelnut, almond & cashew with honeycombe end note. Creamy palate texture with flavours of hazelnut, cashew and biscuit – the palate is loaded with secondary (wine making derived) flavours. Clean acid finish. Aftertaste of honeycomb, hazelnut, cashew and yeast lees.
Cellar 2-3 years (2011-2012)
Alc/Vol: 13.0%