Save Our Souls Chardonnay 2019

Yarra Valley – Coombe Farm Vineyard

Grown on the loamy soils of the Yarra Valley floor, Clone 96 from Coombe farm was harvested in the final week of February. Another vigorous year provided plenty of healthy bunches. A mild growing and ripening season was finished off with a heat spike in the second half of February, advancing flavour development prior to picking.

The fruit was immediately pressed on arrival in the winery to be cooled and settled. The must was transferred to a smaller tank and allowed to ferment with natural yeasts. Malolactic conversion followed in the same tank not long after. Prior the transfer to ‘full’ storage a small SO2 addition was made. There were No adjustments to acid and no fermentation aids were required either. Clarification agents were not used and only a small tweak of Sulphur Dioxide was added before the bottling some 18 months after harvest.

The 2019 is the definition of SOS Chardonnay. The nose shows aromas of stone fruits, almonds, and white flowers. The wine is textured and long despite the absence of oak character. The palate is soft, round and perfectly balanced. It is looking fully resolved and drinking beautifully.