Chardonnay
75cl * Vegan * 12% ABV * Hampshire, England
2014 was a year of almost perfect growing conditions; a mild spring for budburst, ideal conditions at flowering with high temperatures and plenty of sunshine throughout June and July leading to good yields and excellent quality.
The Chardonnay grapes for this Blanc de Blancs were handpicked and gently whole-bunch pressed. Approximately 13% of the total blend was fermented in old oak barrels and partial malolactic fermentation took place to provide a round and creamy texture, followed by five years ageing on lees in bottle to add complexity and depth.
Pale golden colour with gentle green hues and delicate bubbles, this Blanc de Blancs displays beautifully the pure linear character of the Chardonnay - white stone fruit, citrus fruit and a delicious honeyed character on the nose; clean and mineral flavours with pastry and brioche notes on the palate. It has a well balanced and refreshing acidity that gives way to a creamy mouthfeel and long, complex finish.
Drinking very well now, will improve and mature over the next 5-7 years and will keep for at least 10 years.
Delicious with Hampshire hot smoked trout pate, local salami and charcuterie.
~ Critic Reviews ~
"With 13% old oak and a perfect balance of age and oak, coupled with sensational use of Chardonnay, this is an effortlessly classy wine and one of the most engaging in our land. All too often English BdB lacks aroma, mid-palate grandeur and mystery, but this is a brilliantly balanced wine, at the top of its game and it is incredibly perfumed, stunningly restrained and ever so exciting." Matthew Jukes
"Very nicely balanced, sprightly nose. Super-fine bead. Nicely judged mousse. Very much a Blanc de Blancs with citrus zest and no obvious sweetness – just well-integrated fruit and acidity. A really attractive drink now but it shouldn't go downhill in a hurry." Jancis Robinson