2024 Black Sands Chardonnay

$55.00

This vineyard is located a short distance to the west of the township of Heywood in western Victoria. Planted in 1990 by Alistair and Alice Taylor, the vineyard has produced some of the most interesting and pronounced chardonnay grown in Australia. The soil is a unique shallow blend of black volcanic sand and basalt over pure white limestone that runs deep.

The fruit was hand harvested into 450kg bins, chilled overnight and transferred to the winery, and then whole-cluster crushed into the press and drained off into tank for
settling. Primary fermentation took place in barrique (30% new) over three weeks followed by complete malolactic fermentation. Lees stirring occurred twice towards the end of
primary fermentation then once more at the completion of malolactic fermentation. The wine was then aged in barrique for eleven months.

Opens with lime, lemon and grapefruit, followed by white peach and subtle spice. Hints of hazelnut, vanilla custard and lightly buttered toast add depth and complexity.

Vibrant and precise, with bright mineral notes and zesty acidity framed by subtle crème brûlée richness. Fresh and concentrated, it shows balance with nuanced oak and layered depth.

"Another tip-top Black Sands, easily the best to date for it has restraint yet flavour, although that seems to be the Patrick Sullivan way. This features white and yellow peaches, Kanzi apple, lemon and lime with woodsy spices plus a little flint adding an extra layer of detail. The palate builds yet acidity reins this in beautifully. Highly gluggable yet classy at the same time." 94 points.
Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion

PLEASE NOTE: We can only deliver within Australia. Minimum of 6 bottles per order.