Product Description
The Felton Road Block 2 Chardonnay 2023 is a quintessential expression of Central Otago's terroir. Sourced from the iconic Block 2 vineyard, this Chardonnay offers the perfect balance of freshness and complexity. The vineyard is planted on gently sloping land with deep angular schist soils, providing the ideal environment for the vines to produce fruit with exceptional minerality, structure, and vibrancy.
Felton Road’s winemaking process is minimalistic, focusing on allowing the fruit to speak for itself. The hand-harvested grapes are whole-bunch pressed and fermented with indigenous yeasts in French oak barrels, using just 4% new oak to allow the fruit's natural characteristics to shine. The wine undergoes full malolactic fermentation, adding a creamy texture and enhancing its complexity. After 17 months of maturation in barrel, the wine is racked and bottled without fining or filtration, preserving its purity and expression of terroir.
The 2023 vintage was characterised by a dry and warm growing season, with cool nights preserving the fruit’s freshness and acidity. The slow, steady ripening allowed the grapes to develop a harmonious balance of richness and freshness, which is reflected in the wine’s depth and complexity. Harvest took place in late March, with the fruit picked at optimal ripeness, creating a wine of great focus and elegance.
Other - Organic & Biodynamic
Maker
Felton Road is one of New Zealand’s leading wineries, renowned for its commitment to organic and biodynamic viticulture. Founded in 1991, Felton Road operates with a strict estate policy, sourcing all fruit from its four Central Otago vineyards. The winery’s approach is hands-off, allowing the terroir to express itself through the wines. With winemaker Blair Walter and viticulturist Gareth King at the helm, Felton Road produces exceptional Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Riesling wines. The estate is certified BioGro and Demeter, reflecting its dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Their wines are crafted with minimal intervention, preserving the purity of the fruit and ensuring wines that are true to their place.
Philosophy
Felton Road’s philosophy is grounded in sustainability and a deep respect for the land. By embracing organic and biodynamic practices, the winery ensures that each vine thrives in harmony with its environment. Every decision, from canopy management to harvest timing, is made with the goal of expressing the true nature of the vineyard. With a hands-off winemaking approach, Felton Road uses indigenous yeasts, avoids fining and filtration, and allows the wines to evolve naturally. The result is wines that are rich in complexity, character, and authenticity, offering a true reflection of their unique Central Otago terroir.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
Lemon, Elderflower, Citrus
The nose opens with a vibrant bouquet of lemon and elderflower blossoms, followed by crisp citrus notes and a touch of crushed stone. The minerality, characteristic of the schist soils, adds depth to the aromatic profile.
PALATE
Fresh, Elegant, Structured
On the palate, this wine is fresh and elegant, with a core of vibrant citrus and ripe stone fruits, such as white peach. A finely integrated acidity brings focus and energy, while subtle minerality and a hint of white flowers contribute to the wine’s complexity.
FINISH
Long, Mineral, Precise
The finish is long and mineral, with lingering citrus zest and fresh stone fruit. The wine’s clean, focused finish showcases its exceptional balance, with the purity of the terroir shining through.
Finer Details
Style – White Wine
Varietal – Chardonnay
Country – New Zealand
Region – Central Otago
Vintage – 2023
Bottle Size – 750ml
ABV – 14%
