Tolpuddle Chardonnay 2022

Winemaking and Drinking

Tolpuddle Vineyard, situated in Tasmania’s Coal River Valley, has established itself as a benchmark in Australian viticulture since its establishment in 1988. The vineyard’s name pays homage to the Tolpuddle Martyrs, a group of 19th-century British laborers who fought for workers' rights and were exiled to Tasmania. Their resilience and determination resonate with the vineyard’s ethos of quality and excellence.

The Coal River Valley, renowned for its cool climate and long growing season, provides an ideal terroir for Chardonnay. The combination of rich, free-draining soils and a temperate climate characterized by mild summers and cool autumns creates perfect conditions for slow ripening. This results in Chardonnay grapes that achieve an exceptional balance of acidity and flavor.

Tolpuddle Vineyard was acquired by Martin Shaw and Michael Hill Smith in 2011, co-founders of Shaw + Smith in the Adelaide Hills. They recognized the unique potential of the vineyard and set out to craft wines that express its distinctive terroir. Since then, Tolpuddle Chardonnay has gained a reputation for its precision, elegance, and vibrant character.

Tolpuddle Chardonnay 2022

The 2022 vintage is a testament to the meticulous vineyard practices and minimal intervention winemaking philosophy embraced at Tolpuddle. The grapes are handpicked at optimal ripeness to ensure the highest quality. In the winery, a gentle pressing of whole bunches is followed by fermentation in a combination of French oak barriques and stainless steel. This approach preserves the pristine fruit character while imparting subtle complexity from oak aging.

The 2022 Chardonnay exudes aromas of citrus blossom, white peach, and a hint of flint. On the palate, it is taut and finely structured, with flavors of lemon zest, green apple, and a touch of saline minerality. The finish is long and precise, underpinned by a vibrant acidity that promises excellent aging potential.

Awards and Recognition

Tolpuddle Chardonnay has consistently garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, cementing its status as one of Australia’s premier Chardonnays. The 2022 vintage has continued this legacy, earning accolades both domestically and internationally.

• Domestic Awards:

  • 2023 Halliday Wine Companion Awards: Tolpuddle Chardonnay 2022 received a prestigious 97-point rating from James Halliday, highlighting its exceptional quality and distinctive character.
  • Royal Melbourne Wine Awards 2023: The wine was awarded the Trophy for Best Chardonnay, recognizing its outstanding balance and complexity.

• International Awards:

  • Decanter World Wine Awards 2023: The 2022 vintage secured a Gold Medal with 96 points, praised for its purity, precision, and elegant expression of cool-climate Chardonnay.
  • International Wine Challenge 2023: Tolpuddle Chardonnay 2022 was honored with a Trophy for Best Australian Chardonnay, acknowledging its exemplary craftsmanship and world-class quality.

Vineyard Practices

The success of Tolpuddle Chardonnay begins in the vineyard, where sustainable practices and meticulous attention to detail are paramount. The vineyard spans 20 hectares, with Chardonnay occupying a significant portion. Vines are planted on north-east facing slopes, maximizing exposure to sunlight and promoting even ripening.

The viticulture team employs organic principles, avoiding synthetic chemicals and focusing on soil health and biodiversity. Cover crops are planted to improve soil structure and enhance microbial activity, while careful canopy management ensures optimal air circulation and sunlight penetration.

Tolpuddle Chardonnay 2022 is a distinguished expression of Tasmanian terroir, reflecting the dedication and expertise of its makers. Its international acclaim and numerous awards are a testament to its quality and the unique characteristics of the Coal River Valley. As Tolpuddle continues to push the boundaries of cool-climate winemaking, the 2022 Chardonnay stands as a beacon of excellence, captivating wine enthusiasts around the world with its elegance, complexity, and unwavering commitment to authenticity.