Kidnappers Vineyard Chardonnay 2019
Trade Tools
New Zealand
The cool but sunny environment of the Kidnappers Vineyard near Hawkes Bay and its shallow, warm clay loam soils allow the development of intense Chardonnay flavors in the grapes, which are captured using the traditional winemaking techniques of the Chablis region of France. Grapes are hand harvested and whole-bunch pressed before undergoing fermentation in stainless steel, closed oak tanks and new French oak puncheons. The wine is matured on the lees in oak barrels before bottling.
Harvest Note
The 2019 vintage in Hawke's Bay saw warm and dry conditions throughout the summer. Late-season rains threatened harvest, but the clusters were brought into the winery in ideal condition and ripeness.
Tasting Note
Pale lime to pale straw. Subtle, yes definitive aromas of lime zest and grapefruit pulp with hints of brioche and fresh cashews. Palate has saline acidity that carry the citrus notes from nose to mouth. The savoury complexity provides the perfect counter-point for a Chardonnay that truly reflects its maritime origins.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Chardonnay
APPELLATION: Hawkes Bay
PH: 3.3
ACIDITY: 5.8 g/L
ABV: 12.7%
AGING: Aged for 8 months in 15% new French oak barrels before fining and filtering.
MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION: Partial
Unique Selling Points
- This single-vineyard Chardonnay has an elegant, balanced and refined character.
- This cool climate wine's juicy, bright and fresh aromas and flavors are a perfect compliment to shellfish and seafood.
- In the traditional Chablis style, this wine is made from whole clusters, and is fermented and aged in stainless steel tank, large French oak vats and puncheons.
I am fortunate to lead an extraordinary group of people who want to be part of creating something truly magnificent that successive generations can admire and enjoy for years to come. I love our great estates and feel a strong connection to their complexities and subtleties.
Ben Tombs, Winemaker
About the Grape
Chardonnay
Though it has a distinctive profile, Chardonnay reflects other factors such as soil composition and vinification technique. Chardonnay is a reliable, hardy and prolific vine whose only real vulnerabilities are frost and uneven development of fruit.
