The 2001 season in Nelson was warm with very little rain. While this lack of rain was a problem for apple growers in the region, it was ideal for grapegrowers. We were able to regulate exactly the water required to prevent vine stress and enable the vines to ripen the fruit. The warm and dry conditions right into May were ideal for Chardonnoay and we picked several clones over a three week period.

The Mendoza clone portion was hand picked and whole-bunch pressed in the winery. The juice and resulting wine from this portion gives the wine both structure and elegance to the final blend.

The Clone 6 and MVIG clones were machine picked and crushed before pressing. This has added some textural weight to the palate and seems to bring a different spectrum of flavour to the final blend.

A portion of this wine has been barrel fermented and lees stirred, whilst the remainder is tank fermented to maintain fruit freshness.

Strong melon and grapefruit/citrus characters predominate with some riper stonefruit notes. The yeasty, creamy notes combine well with the light cedary oak aromas.

The flavours of this wine are citrusy with some more fragrant nectarine and melon characters. The toasty oak characters marry well with these fruit flavours to produce a full flavoured wine that is vibrant on the palate.

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