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.
Harvest dates were significantly later than average.

VINIFICATION:
100% hand picked.
Whole bunch pressed, juice transferred to barrel by gravity with no settling.Indigenous fermentation into just 4 x 500L French puncheons.
100% malolactic fermentation.
Batonage in May and June.
Maturation for 10 months in new and used French oak – 25% new,
75% older, Mercurey, Taransaud and D&J.
Bottled unfiltered.

THE VINEYARD:
Location: Gladysdale
Planted: 1997
Elevation: 220-320 metres
Soil type: Grey clay loam over black (basalt) volcanic base
Aspect: East facing slopes
Size: 12.5 hectares
Applejack Vineyard, in the upper Yarra Valley, was planted by respected viticulturist Ray Guerin and is managed by his son Mark. The higher altitude results in a cooler and extended growing season, ideally suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (3-4 weeks later than central Yarra valley). Applejack Vineyard is located on a dramatic slope and is close planted and fastidiously managed. The basalt based underlying volcanic soil and rock produce a characteristically fine yet extended, spicy and firm palate.