GIANT STEPS TARRAFORD CHARDONNAY 750ML

SEASON: The 2020 season was a bit of a rollercoaster, beginning with a very cold winter into a cool wet Spring, a dry and warm December and then a mild February/March punctuated by a few rain events. The cool Spring delivered very low yields across our Chardonnay blocks, primarily driven by tighter, smaller bunches – the consequence of which is naturally high acidity and fresh savoury flavours. VINIFICATION: 100% hand picked. Whole bunch pressed very gently with an early “cut” due to the unusually high phenolics. The was juice then transferred straight to barrel by gravity with no settling. Indigenous fermentation in 500L French puncheons. No batonage. No malolactic fermentation. Maturation for 10 months in new and used French oak – 20% new, 80% older, Taransaud and D&J. THE VINEYARD: Location: Tarrawarra Planted: 1988 Elevation: 100 metres Soil Type: Grey clay loam Aspect: North, south and east facing slopes Size: 8.5 Hectares Located in a protected valley, Tarraford Vineyard has a discreet microclimate, that is cooler than neighbouring sites. A diversity of aspect and clone provides multifaceted winemaking opportunities. Although located in a warmer part of the valley, the site produces Chardonnay with high natural acids (and low pH) expressing itself through its characteristically long palate, fine tight structure and a zesty lemon/grapefruit finish.