2006 Waipara Chardonnay
Released March 2010
The grapes were grown on two Waipara vineyard sites, the free draining terrace site providing elegance and aromatic fruit flavours, the heavier clay loam site imparts body and structure. There were four different harvest dates to achieve the required flavours.
Grapes were machine harvested in excellent condition at 23 to 25 Brix. The wine was barrel fermented and given 12 months yeast lees contact. Approximately 20% of the wine was allowed to undergo Malolactic fermentation. The resultant wine reflects a well-integrated combination of complex flavours. Ripe melon fruit is overlain by, hints of almonds and savoury characters to give a creamy rich flavour with a lingering finish.
The Omihi Road 2006 "Selection" Chardonnay is made to have cellaring potential for 3-5 years. Each barrel is selected for the blend by Winemaker, Kym Rayner.
This wine is very limited with only 280 cases selected.
This wine has used the screw top closure to preserve fresh fruit flavours or allow the wine to age gracefully and reach its full potential with no bottle variation.
Alcohol : 14.0%
Cellar Potential: 3-5 years
Harvest Dates: Mid to late April at 23-25 Brix
Cooperage: 40% new oak Barriques from Francois Freres and Cadus.
Allier and Vosge oaks are used and barrique maturation is 12 months