We want our wines to encapsulate the purity, altitude and coolness of our beautiful region. The fruit for this Chardonnay was hand-picked early in the harvest to ensure high levels of natural acidity, fresh and pure fruit characteristics. A gentle hand in the winery, sensitive use of oak and a true belief in fruit quality combine to produce a delicious wine of subtle elegance and regional honesty. Drinking beautifully now, it has the backbone to reward up to 5 years in the cellar. Belgravia
Orange has been making great strides in the production of premium white wine in particular - or at least that is what I am told courtesy of loads of media releases and the like, but it wasn't until much recently that the case for Orange gathered some real pace. First, a fairly unknown winery (to us Southerners) called Printhie made me sit up and take notice with none other than a Sauvignon Blanc. Then, I noticed none other than Penfolds sourcing much of their premium Chardonnay fruit from the region. Next up, I see one of the most respected winemakers (and wine judges) in Philip Shaw making wines under his own label from the district and finally, along comes the Belgravia Vineyard Apex Chardonnay 2010. This is not just one of those honest efforts akin to a school boy getting pats on the head, this is brilliant cool-climate Chardonnay the equal to any bar the absolute highest echolon of Australian examples. This is cool-climate Chardonnay at its finest and with an eye on price, at its absolute bargain basement best.
The first word that comes to mind when looking at this wine is 'linear'. The profile is all about white fleshy fruit, white peach and nectarine. Some citrus of the lemon and lime nature, pine nuts, almonds and subtle oak nuances. From linear to purity, the fruit is well defined and clean and despite its generousity, it maintains its 'modesty' courtesy of fine acidity and gorgeous mouthfeel and texture. It oscillates between elegance and power with such precision, the minerality on display is more akin to Burgundy than it is to a new world style. Bravo. Exceptional wine and one that will broaden and drink well over the next 5 to 8 years. Drink: Now-2016+; Quality: Exceptional BW; WineStar© August 2011
Said to be made from a unique clone on the estate vineyard; whole bunch-pressed and wild yeast-fermented in new French oak; it has bright green colour, with white peach fruit the driver of its flavour; very good texture and structure. Drink to: 2020; Price: $30.00; Alcohol: 13%; Rating: 96 Points - James Halliday Wine Companion