From red volcanic soils, the fruit was handpicked and pressed to 500L French oak puncheons (10% new) before ten months maturation on lees, then a further four months on lees in tank prior to bottling.
Like its Hazeldene and Willowlake siblings, this represents excellent buying for the asking price.
The focus and precision of the fruit, the flirtatious oak and the joyous tang on close create a heady mix of deliciousness. White fleshed nectarines, lemon juice, struck match and whispers of Jersey caramel stake an early claim with almonds and old school lemonade tucking in behind. The grapefruit acidity is in the zone and brings the mouth to water - yes! An ever so slight suggestion of oyster shell rises up late not to mention the ginger spices. It's a wine that builds intrigue and curiosity yet answers with satisfaction and grace. It's the type of Chardonnay that I would love to revisit with five years bottle age on its side. Easily the best Henk I have seen to date, savour every drop.
Drink to eight years+
96/100
Region: Yarra Valley
Posts
