Bannockburn Grigsby Chardonnay 2022

Stuart Hooper had a vision to create a vineyard in Australia that would produce exceptional quality wines. In the early 1970s he selected a plot of land in the Moorabool Valley and planted shiraz vines. As the vineyard expanded, more land was acquired, and additional grape varieties were planted. Bannockburn Vineyards, founded by Stuart Hooper, continues to thrive today, with a commitment to quality and organic farming practices. Matt Holmes joined Bannockburn Vineyards as the winemaker in 2015, aiming to produce wines representative of the vineyard's style and site with gentle inputs and minimal additions in the winemaking process.

Bannockburn Vineyards is comprised of 24 vineyard blocks, 8 grape varieties, and 16 clones. The soil is low-fertility with good drainage, allowing for controlled growth. Organic farming principles are followed, with the addition of compost to maintain vineyard balance. The soil variations range from volcanic surface debris to ancient sea beds, layered over limestone bedrock. The first vineyard was planted in 1974, making the vines some of the oldest in the Geelong region. The Moorabool Valley, where the vineyards are located, has an average annual rainfall of 540mm, primarily occurring in winter and spring. The region benefits from a maritime influence, resulting in mild temperatures and long sunshine hours. The stable, dry and low-humidity conditions during the grape-growing season allow for a mild and extended ripening period, ideal for healthy vines and gradual flavour development. The unique combination of meagre rainfall, low vigour soils, prevailing winds and close plantings contributes to the restricted yields and distinctive flavors and structures of Bannockburn wines.

The Bannockburn Grigsby Chardonnay 2022 is a remarkable wine that pays tribute to viticulturalist Lucas Grigsby. With an impressive tenure of 36 years, Lucas has been an integral part of the team at Bannockburn. This exceptional wine is crafted from grapes sourced exclusively from the renowned Grigsby block, a certified organic Chardonnay vineyard that was established in 2007. The Grigsby block is meticulously maintained with close planting, boasting a unique configuration of 1.2-meter row spacing and 1.0-meter vine spacing. It is predominantly planted with the Bernard clone 76 Chardonnay, carefully aligned in a north-south row orientation. The soil composition of this block is a compelling blend of dark cracking clay overlaying weathered basalt and limestone, which imparts distinct characteristics to the grapes. The winemaking process for the Bannockburn Grigsby Chardonnay 2022 involves utmost care and attention to detail. The handpicked fruit is delicately whole bunch pressed, allowing the juice to settle overnight in tanks before being transferred to barrels. The fermentation is initiated by wild yeast in French oak hogsheads, of which 25% are new. To enhance complexity, a partial malolactic fermentation of 70% takes place. Throughout this process, the wine remains undisturbed on lees for a period of 10 months, allowing flavors to develop and integrate harmoniously.

The Bannockburn Grigsby Chardonnay 2022 is a wine that showcases richness and depth, with a breadth and concentration of flavors that captivate the palate. This vintage offers a remarkable energy and focus on the finish, leaving a lasting impression. The wine opens with an inviting aroma that hints at the complexity to come. Notes of ripe tropical fruits, such as pineapple and mango, mingle with citrus zest and a touch of vanilla oak. On the palate, the wine unfolds with luscious flavors of stone fruits, including peach and apricot, complemented by subtle hints of toasted almond. The mouthfeel is velvety and smooth, with a well-integrated acidity that adds freshness and balance. As the wine evolves in the glass, it reveals additional layers of complexity. Creamy butterscotch and toasty oak nuances emerge, adding depth and richness to the flavour profile. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering impression of ripe fruit and a touch of minerality. The Bannockburn Grigsby Chardonnay 2022 is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and dedication that goes into every bottle. It is a wine that can be enjoyed now, but also has the potential to age gracefully, allowing its flavors to further develop and evolve over time.

Light-medium yellow colour with a rich and toasty/oaky bouquet that enshrines nougat, roasted hazelnuts and creamy lees derived facets. A very complex chardonnay, full and rich and generous in the mouth with a long-lasting aftertaste. A ripping chardonnay. - Huon Hooke, The Real Review, 96 Points.

A high density planting, certified organic. Palate-staining intensity of flavour. Riveting scents of nuts and nectarines, with crystalline acidity to mineral pungency, glittering across the tightly furled palate like glycerine diamonds. This is a gorgeous wine of spellbinding complexity in waiting, just palpable already, but held in an embryonic state of tension. This will age exceptionally well. Drink or hold, but better after 2026. Screw cap. - Ned Goodwin MW, jamessuckling.com, 95 Points.

The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - Australia
Region - Geelong, Victoria
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13.5%
Closure - Screw Cap