2022 Houghton Reserve Chardonnay

Pale straw with tinges of gold . The bouquet displays primary fruit characters of white peach and citrus, combined with hints of roasted almonds and brioche . Subtle toasted oak and vanilla spice further enhance and provide interest to the aroma . Medium bodied, the palate mirrors the bouquet with fresh and full flavoured stone fruit and citrus characters . Hints of hazelnut and vanilla are derived from extended yeast lees contact and oak maturation, providing texture and a long finish . A wine to be enjoyed upon release, with the potential to cellar for up to 3 years .

The Chardonnay grapes are machine harvested at night to optimise fruit freshness. The grapes are then crushed, pressed, and the juice cold settled before racking with a level of turbidity to provide texture and complexity in the resulting wine. Tank fermentation is carefully monitored with temperatures allowed to fluctuate between 15 and 20C. The wine is matured in tank with French oak and lees stirring to impart toasty flavours and creamy texture.