Product Description
The Lowestoft La Meilleure Chardonnay 2021 is an exceptional expression of Tasmania’s unique terroir, meticulously crafted from select coastal vineyards in the Coal Valley, Tasman Peninsula, East Coast, and Tamar Valley. This wine reflects the distinct coastal influence of the region, with mineral-driven elements that shine through the fruit, along with a delicate saline spray reminiscent of the ocean’s breeze.
Handpicked and whole bunch pressed, the fruit was carefully fermented and matured in French oak, with a small portion undergoing malolactic fermentation. The result is a wine of remarkable depth and intensity, with a seductive core of oyster shell, citrus, and subtle oak spice, balanced by a lovely minerality. A wine that displays purity, elegance, and complexity, the La Meilleure Chardonnay is perfect for current enjoyment and promises to reward careful cellaring for years to come.
The Lowestoft La Meilleure Chardonnay 2021 exemplifies the purity, elegance, and complexity of Tasmanian cool-climate Chardonnay, offering an exceptional wine with a bright future ahead.
“Tasmania's most exciting new label" - James Halliday Wine Companion.
Maker:
In the late 1800s, Tasmania's vineyards faced a stark fate as many were uprooted, deemed too cold for wine grape production, while workers flocked to the Victorian gold rush. It wasn’t until the mid-1950s that Claudio Alcorso breathed new life into the Tasmanian wine industry, planting 90 Riesling vines sourced from David Wynn in South Australia. By 1976, Alcorso, along with the Pirie brothers, established the first Pinot Noir vineyard in the region.
In 1986, Bernard McKay, then owner of Lowestoft, was invited to plant vines for Alcorso’s Moorilla Winery, located on the site that is now Mona. The 3-hectare plot was dedicated entirely to Pinot Noir, using cuttings from Moorilla. Following the sale of Moorilla, viticulturist Fred Peacock began sourcing some of Lowestoft's grapes for his Bream Creek Reserve Pinot Noir, with the remainder sold to Treasury Wines and others. Fast forward to 2017, when Peter Fogarty, founder and Executive Chairman of Fogarty Wine Group, turned his passion for world-class Pinot Noir towards Tasmania’s cool climate. It was during this period that Fogarty first recognised the historic Lowestoft property, ultimately acquiring it in 2019, alongside two other esteemed vineyards - Strelley Farm and Gilling Brook.
Philosophy
At Lowestoft Wines, the philosophy revolves around the belief that great wines begin in the vineyard, where the balance of nature, craftsmanship, and patience converge. The winery’s approach is to create wines that showcase the true potential of Tasmania’s varied terroirs, with a particular focus on sustainability and minimal intervention. By using the best practices in both viticulture and winemaking, Lowestoft produces wines that are not only expressions of place but also of the winemaker’s dedication to craftsmanship. The aim is to deliver wines with precision, balance, and complexity, capable of ageing gracefully while retaining their distinct character.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Fresh, Minerally & Aromatic
The nose is a beguiling mix of fresh sea spray, flint, and zesty grapefruit pith, with a distinct minerality that hints at the coastal influence of the vineyards.
Palate
Lively & Balanced
A seductive core of oyster shell and citrus is framed by subtle oak spice and almond meal, creating a smooth, full-bodied palate with great intensity and purity.
Finish
Long & Elegant
The finish is long, with the wine’s mineral-driven character and a satisfying citrus backbone that lingers elegantly.
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - Australia
Region - Tasmania
Vintage - 2021
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13%
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