Felton Road Chardonnay 'Block 2' Otago 2024

Felton Road Chardonnay 'Block 2' Otago originates from New Zealand, within the South Island region and the Central Otago subregion. The estate is located in the Bannockburn subregion, where it was established at The Elms Vineyard. The winemaking philosophy is centered on minimal intervention and estate grown fruit to allow the unique characteristics of the site to shine through. Block 2 was planted in 1992 on a sheltered, east sloping plot defined by deep, angular schist gravel soils that bring a distinctive focus and depth to the fruit.

Wine Description

This white wine displays a pale gold colour with greenish highlights and possesses a medium to moderately full body. The sensory profile is highly elegant, precise, and complex, opening with an aromatically restrained nose of citrus blossom, lemon zest, green melon, and its hallmark elderflower notes, accompanied by hints of white blossoms and green pear. On the sleek and linear palate, it delivers pure, restrained fruit flavours of crisp apple, white peach, and grapefruit, supported by an athletic structure, a sheath of mineral phenolics, and a mouthwatering, sappy acidity. The finish is long, vibrant, and bone dry, culminating in a distinctive, gentle brine note and a lingering sense of salinity.

• Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay, entirely from the Mendoza clone.

• Stylistic Notes: The wine is celebrated for its remarkable structural focus, harmony, and site expression. It undergoes spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts and complete malolactic fermentation in seasoned French oak barrels (only 4% new) where it ages for 16 months before being bottled unfined and unfiltered under screw cap.

• ABV: 14%.

• Organic Status: The vineyard is farmed strictly according to biodynamic principles and holds full Demeter and BioGro certifications.

Food Pairing

The vibrant acidity, pure mid palate, and distinct mineral tension of this Chardonnay make it a versatile partner for elegant, lightly seasoned dishes.

• Seafood: Pairs phenomenally well with fresh seafood options such as raw oysters, shrimp, crab, or premium grilled fish.

• Savoury: Suggested pairings include dishes with subtle richness that benefit from a crisp, linear contrast, such as an almond croissant or light poultry preparations.

• Cheese: Matches gracefully with hard, structured artisanal cheeses such as mature Manchego or Parmesan.