NineYardsChardonnay2023JordanEstate

The ultimate expression of Jordan terroir. The Nine Yards Chardonnay is made in a Reserve Style, from a barrel selection from their best vineyard site. Stylistically different to our Jordan Chardonnay, with this wine we went ‘The Whole Nine Yardsâ€?“Burgundian in style, with beeswax, lemon curd and cool mint. Subtle cedar, oyster shell minerality. Honeyed depth and freshness. Elegant, layeredâ€?Decanter April: 94 points.

The vineyards are situated between 250-280m above sea level and this 19 year old, site-specific vineyard is planted to both Burgundian and Davis clone Chardonnay. East-facing Hutton and Glenrosa soils, innovative canopy management and low crop levels ensure that the vineyard produces smaller berries with concentrated citrus flavours.

The grapes are harvested, crushed and pressed immediately after de-stemming, the juice is barrel-fermented in traditional 228-litre French oak barrels (95% new and 5% second fill) from selected Burgundian cooperages (Francois Freres, Rousseau, Seguin Moreau and Taransaud). The barrels are inoculated with a selection of French yeast. A percentage of the wine went through natural fermentation. Differing stylistically from the varietal Jordan Chardonnay, the wine is matured ‘sur lieâ€?for 12 months, with regular barrel-rolling to accentuate the rich, leesy character.

Butterscotch, spicy cloves, lemon/lime and orange peel with complex mineral citrus flavours. A rich mouthfeel and subtly balanced toasty French oak integrate with the long, tropical peach and melon finish.