2022 Cassie Chardonnay

A two barrique cuvee from David Freschi's vineyard high up on the first ridge of the Hills at Ashton. The soils have never been worked and competition under-vine is fierce which results in tiny bunches. Gently pressed and settled overnight, the juice is run to the same two old barriques as the previous vintage. Fermented in barrel and aged on full lees without sulphur for 10 months.

Fairly subdued expression here but unmistakably chardonnay. Spice and earth overlay the delicate lime pith, grapefruit and mandarin citrus notes. There is a floral note too. Delicate and pretty. The palate is fresh and fine with a strong stoney mineral element that builds. The fruit expression is more mandarin and orange pith. A fine, drying acid spine adds the necessary tension. Everything in the right place here.