Chardonnay

del Rios Chardonnay is sourced from the steep slopes of the estate vineyard at Mount Anakie, a short distance north of Geelong. The vines are pruned and picked by hand.

The fruit is air bag pressed as whole bunches. The juice is transferred to a mix of new and seasoned French oak barrels for fermentation. Partial malolactic fermentation follows.

During 10-12 months of maturation, the barrels are stirred only as required. Each is then assessed, and the parcels showing the most complex flavours are blended. The wine is then lightly fined and filtered prior to bottling.

Pale lemon yellow, del Rios Chardonnay is rich and complex with lingering fruit flavours, clean acidity and French oak notes. Cellaring potential is seven years.