Irrewarra Chardonnay 2021

Winemaking and Drinking

The Irrewarra Chardonnay 2021 is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and unique terroir of the Irrewarra vineyard, located in the Otway hinterlands of Victoria. This exceptional wine captures the essence of its origins, combining the rich heritage of the land with innovative viticultural practices.

Origins 

The Irrewarra vineyard was established in 2001, but it wasn't until years later that the Chardonnay vines began to produce grapes of exceptional quality. The site, chosen for its cool climate and rich volcanic soils, provides the perfect conditions for growing Chardonnay. The vineyard's north-facing slopes ensure optimal sun exposure, while the cool breezes from the nearby Southern Ocean help maintain a balance between sugar and acidity in the grapes.

Vineyards

The grapes for the Irrewarra Chardonnay 2021 are sourced exclusively from the estate’s vineyard. The vines are meticulously managed, with a focus on sustainable and organic farming practices. The viticultural approach is minimalistic, allowing the natural characteristics of the terroir to shine through. Hand harvesting ensures that only the best grapes make it into the winery, where they are gently pressed and fermented using wild yeasts.

The 2021 vintage benefited from a growing season with ideal conditions: a cool and wet spring followed by a warm and dry summer. This combination resulted in grapes with concentrated flavors and a perfect balance of acidity and ripeness.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, the Irrewarra Chardonnay 2021 offers an enticing bouquet of aromas. It opens with fresh notes of citrus, green apple, and white peach, interwoven with subtle hints of flint and wet stone, indicative of its terroir. As the wine breathes, more complex layers emerge, including nuances of almond, brioche, and a delicate floral note, perhaps reminiscent of jasmine or honeysuckle.

The palate is equally impressive, displaying a precise and elegant structure. The wine's acidity is vibrant, providing a refreshing backbone that balances the creamy texture derived from partial malolactic fermentation and careful aging on lees. Flavors of lemon curd, pear, and nectarine dominate the mid palate, followed by a long, mineral driven finish that leaves a lingering impression of salinity and subtle oak.

Awards and Recognition

The Irrewarra Chardonnay 2021 has garnered significant acclaim both domestically and internationally, solidifying its reputation as a standout Chardonnay. In Australia, it has received high praise from wine critics and publications. The wine scored a 96-point rating from James Halliday's Wine Companion, lauded for its complexity, balance, and purity of fruit. Additionally, it was awarded a gold medal at the 2022 Royal Melbourne Wine Awards, a testament to its superior quality and craftsmanship.

Internationally, the Irrewarra Chardonnay 2021 has also made waves. It received a 95-point rating from Decanter Magazine, one of the world's leading wine publications. The wine was praised for its expressive nose, refined palate, and exceptional aging potential. Furthermore, it was featured in Wine Enthusiast’s top 100 wines of the year, highlighting its global appeal and recognition.

The Irrewarra Chardonnay 2021 is a wine that truly reflects its origins. Its complex nose, balanced palate, and prestigious awards make it a standout Chardonnay that offers a captivating experience for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future enjoyment, the Irrewarra Chardonnay 2021 is a remarkable expression of Australian winemaking prowess.