2022 Bannockburn S.R.H. Chardonnay. Geelong, VIC. 750ml.
The S.R.H needs little introduction. It is, without doubt, one of the finest single-site Chardonnays grown in Australia. The source of the S.R.H. is 12 rows of Bannockburn’s oldest Chardonnay vines (P58) in the Olive Tree Hill vineyard. The root systems for these well-established, low-yielding vines are firmly entrenched in the ancient marine sediments that form the bedrock in this area. They seem to suck the minerality out of their subsoil and deliver a spine-tingling wash of salinity to support the intense flavour and texture for which this benchmark Chardonnay is known.
The 2022 was pressed as whole bunches to tank, where it settled overnight. The must fermented in French hogsheads (33% new) and the wine remained on lees for 10 months with no stirring and 70% malolactic conversion. The 2022 showcases the dense concentration and power held by these 12 rows of vines, yet the wine remains pure, measured and fine—this is a testament to the man who planted these vines as well as the current custodians.
“Light-medium yellow with a biscuity/wheat-mealy bouquet, superbly scented and flavoured with a hint of buttery character along with nougat complexities. Latent power. Has a touch of firmness and grip at the end and is nicely balanced and structured. A real food wine” 95 points, Huon Hooke, The Real Review
