Tyrrells HVD Chardonnay 2019

Winemaking and Drinking

The HVD vineyard, where the grapes for this Chardonnay are grown, is renowned for its deep sandy loam soils and temperate climate. The vineyard’s location, with its proximity to the Brokenback Range, ensures optimal conditions for grape growing. The HVD block, planted in 1908, is one of the oldest chardonnay vineyards in Australia, and its mature vines contribute to the wine's complexity and depth.

Tasting Notes

The 2019 Tyrrell's HVD Chardonnay is a wine that exhibits both elegance and power, encapsulating the essence of the Hunter Valley. On pouring, it presents a pale straw color with hints of green, indicative of its freshness and vitality.

Nose: The aroma is vibrant and expressive, with an enticing bouquet of citrus fruits, notably lemon and grapefruit, complemented by hints of white peach and nectarine. Subtle undertones of flint and toasted almonds add depth, a result of the partial barrel fermentation and aging process. A delicate floral note, reminiscent of jasmine, further enhances the aromatic profile.

Palate: On the palate, this Chardonnay is beautifully balanced, offering a seamless integration of fruit, acidity, and oak. The citrus and stone fruit flavors are upfront, providing a fresh and lively mouthfeel. Mid-palate, the wine reveals layers of complexity, with nuances of creamy cashew, brioche, and a touch of minerality, reflective of the vineyard's terroir. The finish is long and satisfying, marked by a refreshing acidity and a subtle, lingering toastiness from the French oak barrels.

Domestic and International Awards

The 2019 Tyrrell's HVD Chardonnay has garnered critical acclaim both domestically and internationally, solidifying its status as a standout wine from the Hunter Valley.

• James Halliday Wine Companion: Scored 97 points, praised for its balance and finesse.
• Sydney Royal Wine Show 2020: Gold Medal, recognized for its vibrant fruit character and structural complexity.
• Decanter World Wine Awards: Silver Medal, noted for its elegant integration of oak and fruit purity.
• International Wine Challenge: Silver Medal, highlighted for its distinctive minerality and length.

These accolades reflect the meticulous vineyard management and winemaking techniques employed by Tyrrell's, ensuring that each bottle of the 2019 HVD Chardonnay meets the highest standards of quality.

Vineyards

The HVD vineyard is a cornerstone of Tyrrell's estate, showcasing some of the oldest Chardonnay vines in the country. The vineyard's location within the Hunter Valley provides a unique microclimate that is ideal for Chardonnay. The combination of warm days and cool nights allows for the perfect ripening of grapes, ensuring a balance of sugars and acidity.

Tyrrell's commitment to sustainable vineyard practices, including handpicking and minimal intervention, ensures that the HVD vineyard continues to produce high-quality fruit. The old vines, with their deep root systems, are less susceptible to fluctuations in weather and consistently yield grapes with concentrated flavors and natural acidity.