Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay Preservation of pristine fruit characters through vinification and maturation remains at the heart of winemaking. This, of course, starts in the vineyard where observations, reaction and mitigation of environmental patterns are key to vineyard management practices. The vineyard blocks are planted on a series of rolling hills facing all directions. The morphology of the Gingin clone sees the berries ripen differently. The smaller berries usually possess slightly higher sugars and acidity. Vintage takes place in mid February to early March and the grapes (about 2–3 kilos per vine) are hand-harvested when they have reached a point of ‘energy, bone and pop!’ This translates to intense pure fruit aromas, richness of flavour, fine al dente textures and fresh indelible acidity. These are the hallmark qualities of Gingin clone chardonnay. I have often wondered at the clone’s provenance and passing resemblance to Meursault.
19
Volume 1 – Leeuwin Estate
Powered by FlippingBook