Apsley Gorge Chardonnay 2022
Apsley Gorge vineyard, located in the beautiful Apsley Valley near Bicheno, Tasmania, is renowned for its exceptional wines. Planted with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the 1990s, the vineyard has thrived under the guidance of Brian Franklin, a former Abalone diver and Lobster fisherman. The vineyard spans 7 hectares and emphasizes low yields and non-irrigation to maintain fruit stability and quality. Brian Franklin, mentored by Burgundy winemaker Phillipe Charlopin, took over winemaking responsibilities in the late 1990s. Apsley Gorge wines have gained recognition as a premier label, distributed across Australia and exported internationally. The winery sits in the breathtaking "The Gulch" in Bicheno, paying homage to Tasmania's fishing and agricultural heritage. With its unique location near Apsley Gorge national Park, the vineyard benefits from cooling breezes, resulting in a distinct micro-climate. Brian Franklin's extensive winemaking experience in France and Australia ensures Apsley Gorge wines achieve full phenolic ripeness, showcasing ripe fruit, finesse, and texture. These wines possess excellent natural acidity, striking a harmonious balance without heaviness. Apsley Gorge wines are produced naturally, with minimal new oak, yielding exceptional wines of class and structure.
Tasmanian Chardonnay wine is renowned for its exceptional quality and distinctive character. The island's cool climate, pristine environment and unique terroir create the perfect conditions for cultivating this versatile grape variety. Tasmanian Chardonnay wines are known for their elegant structure, vibrant acidity and remarkable balance. They often exhibit flavors of citrus, stone fruits and subtle notes of French oak, showcasing the region's expertise in producing wines of finesse and complexity. With their crisp freshness and refined texture, Tasmanian Chardonnays embody the essence of cool-climate winemaking. These wines have garnered international acclaim, earning a reputation as some of the finest examples of Chardonnay, captivating wine enthusiasts with their elegance and expression of Tasmania's unique terroir.
The Apsley Gorge Chardonnay 2022 is a rare gem, produced from just 1 hectare of fully mature vines, resulting in a limited production of approximately 100 dozen bottles. Reflecting the cooler climate of Tasmania's east coast, it showcases finesse, vibrant acidity and the characteristic generosity and richness of Apsley Gorge wines. With immediate pleasure and the potential to age for 5-10 years, this vintage stands out as one of the finest expressions of Apsley Gorge Chardonnay. The nose reveals precise fruit characters and delicate French oak, while the palate offers a harmonious fusion of fruit, oak, yeast and minerality supported by refreshing acidity. Ripe peaches, apricots, lemon herbs and spices create a lively and flavourful experience, complemented by a rich and creamy texture. This Chardonnay exemplifies the artistry of old-style winemaking, with sumptuous notes of peach, toasty oak and honeycomb. The elegant complexity on the nose speaks to the exceptional quality of the meticulously grown, low-yielding, hand-picked fruit. French oak barrel fermentation adds depth and the palate seamlessly combines texture, fruit and minerality. With each sip, the wine reveals power, concentration and a luxurious complexity, culminating in a buttery finish that lingers.
In conclusion, the Apsley Gorge Chardonnay 2022 is an extraordinary wine that embodies the unique character of its vineyard. With finesse, richness and the potential for graceful aging, it promises both immediate enjoyment and the ability to evolve beautifully over time.
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - Australia
Region - Tasmania
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13.8%