VINEYARD: Swallowfield, Gembrook (Upper Yarra Valley)
VINTAGE: 2021
PRODUCTION: 390 dozen
WINEMAKING: Crafted from a single parcel of premium I10V1 clone fruit, grown on the steep, granitic soils of Swallowfield Vineyard in the cool hills of Gembrook. Hand-picked, whole bunch pressed then fermented in French oak puncheons (30% new). The wine received zero bâtonnage and ten months on lees in barrel before bottling in January 2022.
TASTING NOTES: Pale green-gold in colour, delivering aromas of grilled white peach, nougat and pear. The palate is bursting with mouthwatering intensity, an array of summer stone fruits and a whisper of vanilla. The finish is long, balanced and harmonious.
2021 Fetherston Estate Chardonnay
'From the Swallowfield vineyard in Gembrook. Whole-bunch pressed and barrel fermented. This has immediate appeal with its white peach, nectarine and grilled cashew notes. Energetic, with those aforementioned stone fruits, grapefruit and a hint of fresh vanilla bean, this finishes pithy and long. Impeccably balanced. A lovely wine.'
95 points
- Philip Rich, Halliday Wine Companion
'Excellent intensity of fruit here. It's controlled but there's real power on offer. Grilled white peaches, nougat, custard powder and pear flavours with both a steeliness and a toastiness to the finish. There's texture but it feels inbuilt.'
94 points
- Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front