Brokenwood Indigo Vineyard Chardonnay 2022

Winemaking and Drinking

 The Brokenwood Indigo Vineyard Chardonnay 2022 is a distinguished wine originating from the renowned Brokenwood winery, established in 1970 in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia. Brokenwood has a reputation for producing exceptional wines, and the Indigo Vineyard Chardonnay is no exception. This vineyard is located in the Beechworth wine region of Victoria, an area known for its cool climate and unique terroir, which significantly influences the characteristics of the Chardonnay.

The Indigo Vineyard, where the grapes for this Chardonnay are sourced, benefits from the region's distinct climatic conditions. The cool temperatures, combined with well-drained granitic soils, contribute to the development of grapes with high acidity and intense flavor profiles. The vineyard's altitude and careful vineyard management practices ensure that the Chardonnay grapes are of the highest quality, perfect for crafting a refined and elegant wine.

Tasting Notes

The Brokenwood Indigo Vineyard Chardonnay 2022 is a testament to meticulous winemaking and exceptional vineyard management. In the glass, this Chardonnay exhibits a pale straw color with greenish hues, indicating its youth and freshness.

On the nose, the wine reveals an enticing bouquet of citrus fruits, predominantly lemon and grapefruit, intertwined with subtle notes of white peach and nectarine. These fruit aromas are complemented by hints of flint and a delicate minerality, reflective of the granitic soils of the Indigo Vineyard. Gentle oak influences are also present, imparting aromas of vanilla, toasted almonds, and a touch of spice.

The palate is vibrant and well-balanced, showcasing a harmonious interplay between fruit and acidity. The initial burst of citrus flavors is followed by layers of stone fruits, such as apricot and peach, which add depth and complexity to the wine. The oak aging is evident but not overpowering, providing a creamy texture and adding to the wine's structure. A fine thread of minerality runs through the palate, culminating in a long, clean finish with lingering notes of citrus and a hint of nuttiness.

Awards and Accolades

The Brokenwood Indigo Vineyard Chardonnay 2022 has garnered critical acclaim and received numerous awards both domestically and internationally. Among its accolades, it won a gold medal at the Royal Melbourne Wine Awards, highlighting its exceptional quality and winemaking precision. Internationally, it received high praise at the Decanter World Wine Awards, securing a silver medal and further establishing its reputation on the global stage. The wine has also been lauded by renowned wine critics, earning scores of 95 points and above from publications such as Wine Spectator and James Halliday's Wine Companion.

The Brokenwood Indigo Vineyard Chardonnay 2022 is a wine that embodies the excellence of the Beechworth wine region and the skillful craftsmanship of the Brokenwood winemaking team. Its complex flavor profile, balanced acidity, and elegant structure make it a standout Chardonnay, worthy of its numerous accolades.