2021 Stargazer Chardonnay

Notes from the producer....
2021 is the first vintage that we have used both fruit from our own Palisander vineyard in Coal River Valley and sourced from a grower in the Upper Derwent Valley, which was formerly 100% of the blend. The Stargazer plot was planted in 2017, and is south facing and primarily brown dermosol on jurassic dolerite. The Derwent Valley vineyard owned by Bernand Brain was planted in 1999 with soils composed of white silica sand over sandstone and clay on a northeast-facing site. The fruit is hand-picked and whole bunch pressed to 500ltr French oak, (15% being new) for wild fermentation. This year saw partial; malolactic fermentation, around 70%. The wine is left in barrel for 8 months with no lees stirring, followed by a rest in tank for 3 months before bottling.
Samantha Connew (September 2022)

Other Reviews....
There is great strength here but also judicious balance between the gentle oak, long acid line, an arresting silky texture and robust flavours. Bright preserved lemon leads out fleshy nectarine, grapefruit and a hint of roasted nuts through to a lingering savoury finish. Drink 2022 - 2032.
95 Points
David Sly - Decanter (May 2022)