The sustainably farmed Coolart Road Pinot Noir, best described as a Grand Cru selection, is based primarily on MV6, which is renowned for its colour, density and generosity. It also comes from Coolart Road’s wind-protected D Block, which is proving to be an exceptional vineyard site. Although pinot noir is susceptible to bud mutation and leaves a vineyard like a box of chocolates, this heritage clone has been a magnificent performer in Australian conditions. The consistent soil profile and meticulous vineyard management have contributed greatly to the fidelity of the wines. Vinification is classical and the wines are typically matured in a combination of new and seasoned French oak for around 11 months before bottling. Pleasingly, the fruit comes first, with the oak maturation allowing the elements to fold into each other. The Ten Minutes by Tractor style is completely unforced and highlights the transparency of vineyard site. Authenticity streaks through every vintage. Ten Minutes by Tractor McCutcheon Chardonnay is based on an elevated site near Main Ridge, and is named after the family that established the 1992-planted vineyard. The P58 clone chardonnay is planted on easterly slopes and is protected from scorching summer sunshine. The wine is sourced primarily from the tiny 58-hectare Ridge Block South. The importation of chardonnay in 1958 by Penfolds for planting in the Hunter Valley led to the new P58 clone (Penfolds 1958), said to be a mass selection of Montrachet vines from Burgundy. This clone, much like MV6 pinot noir, has acclimatised very well to Australian conditions and is grown successfully in many regions, including the Hunter Valley, Mudgee, Beechworth and Mornington Peninsula. P58 is known to be richly flavoured and creamy textured when grown in optimum conditions. Ten Minutes by Tractor McCutcheon Vineyard Chardonnay highlights its affinity and consistency across vintage conditions, combined with the character derived from vineyard site and winemaking.
166 The Wine Journal – 2023 McCutcheon Vineyard
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