2020 Coldstream Hills Pinot Noir Chardonnay

Coldstream Hills has been making sparkling wine, albeit in small quantities, since 1995. The first release of the wine was a Blanc de Noir, but in more recent times, it has been a more traditional blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The south facing slopes of the Deer Farm Vineyard at Gladysdale provide an ideal source for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. The fruit was hand-picked and gently pressed prior to fermentation. Following traditional secondary fermentation in the bottle, the wine spent upwards of six years on yeast lees prior to disgorging and release.

Palate - Lovely fine bead and mousse giving rise to citrus blossom, nougat and supporting secondary notes of breadcrust and toast. Restrained, pure and long with chalky lemon acidity and finely tuned liqueur dosage. A true aperitif style.

Nose - Fine and elegant with vibrant lemon blossom enhanced by secondary notes of breadcrust and brioche from time on yeast lees.

Vintage Conditions - A warm start to Spring with above average rainfall led to good vegetative growth. Relatively mild to cool conditions ensued throughout the ripening period, allowing gradual flavour development and sugar accumulation. A sequence of rainfall events required extra vigilance in the vineyards, but fruit quality in the main was excellent. Yields were generally lower than average, with tiny bunches seen across many vineyard sites.

Maturation - This wine spent approximately five years minimum on yeast lees in bottle prior to disgorging.

Food Match - Canapes, shellfish