Mount Barker Chardonnay 2022

Tasting Notes:

• Appearance: A light golden straw colour, indicative of its vibrant and fresh character.
• Bouquet: A complex and approachable nose featuring ripe aromas of peaches, nectarines, and melon, with delicate hints of pink grapefruit. The mealy undertones and subtle French oak notes add layers of richness and intrigue.
• Palate: The palate is full-bodied and rich, with an excellent balance between stone fruit flavours of peach and nectarine and a crisp, lemony acidity. The French oak adds a touch of complexity, offering subtle hints of toasted nuts and vanilla. A zesty, refreshing finish adds clarity and precision to the overall experience.
• Finish: A fresh, citrusy finish with a lingering richness, highlighting the wine’s balanced acidity and refined oak influence.

Food Pairing Suggestions:

• Seafood: Ideal with fresh and lightly cooked seafood such as sushi, sashimi, or grilled prawns, where the wine’s acidity complements the delicate flavours of the seafood.
• Roast Chicken: The richness of the wine pairs wonderfully with the savoury flavours of roast chicken, creating a harmonious balance.
• Cheese Board: Enjoy with a well-curated cheese board, especially with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which contrast beautifully with the wine’s crisp acidity.

Best Serving Temp:

Serve chilled at 10-12°C for optimal expression of fruit and freshness. If storing in the fridge, remove for about 10 minutes before serving.

Technical Terms Explained:

• Malolactic Fermentation: A secondary fermentation process that softens the wine’s acidity, resulting in a rounder, creamier texture and more complex flavours. This wine underwent partial malolactic fermentation, contributing to its richness.
• Lees Aging: The process of aging the wine on its yeast cells after fermentation. This technique enhances the wine’s texture and imparts additional complexity and subtle flavour nuances, as seen in the 10 months of barrel aging for this Chardonnay.
• Solids Flotation: A technique used to clarify the juice before fermentation, removing excess solids that could interfere with the wine’s clarity and flavour.

Additional Information:

• Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay
• Region: Mount Barker, Great Southern
• Alcohol: 13.5% by Vol | 7.1 Standard Drinks
• pH: 3.35
• Total Acidity: 7.1 g/L
• Maturation: 10 months in French oak barrels, with 25% new oak
• Winemaker: Rob Diletti

Accolades:

• Real Review, #1 ranked Chardonnay in the Great Southern
• 92 Points, Ray Jordan

Learn About 3Drops

3drops Winery is located Southwest of Mount Barker in the heart of the acclaimed Great Southern wine region of Western Australia, vines and olive trees flourish side by side in the cool, pristine climate.

3 Drops Winery: A Taste of Western Australia

Nestled in the heart of Mount Barker, 3 Drops Winery is a gem of the Great Southern region of Western Australia, renowned for its exceptional wines and stunning vineyard landscapes. Our unique location benefits from a Mediterranean climate, characterised by warm summer days and cool nights, ideal for grape growing. Complemented by gravelly loam soils, our vineyards showcase a distinctive terroir that imparts remarkable flavours and complexity to our wines.

Our Vineyards: A Legacy of Quality

Established in 1999, 3 Drops Winery began with the meticulous planting of eight hectares of vines along Wragg Road. Our initial selections included a diverse array of varietals, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Shiraz. This foundational planting set the stage for what has become a dynamic and thriving vineyard.

In 2002, we expanded our horizons to include an additional 6.5 hectares, diversifying our offerings with the introduction of Riesling, Chardonnay, Semillon, and Nebbiolo. This commitment to variety allows us to produce a rich tapestry of wines that cater to a wide range of palates and preferences.

A significant milestone for 3 Drops came in May 2006 with the acquisition of the adjacent Patterson’s vineyard. This six-hectare expansion not only increased our vineyard size by 50 per cent but also enriched our portfolio with valuable aged vines. Originally planted in 1982, Patterson’s vineyard is home to exceptional Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir grapes, each contributing to the depth and character of our wine selections.

Our Philosophy: Quality and Passion in Every Bottle

At 3 Drops Winery, we believe that great wine starts in the vineyard. Under the meticulous management of our dedicated viticulturist, Ray Williams, we focus on sustainable practices that enhance the health of our vines and the environment. Our commitment to quality is further elevated by the expertise of winemaker Rob Diletti, known for his innovative approach at Castle Rock. Together, Ray and Rob ensure that every bottle of wine produced at 3 Drops reflects the dedication, passion, and craftsmanship involved in the winemaking process.

Our Signature Wines: A Journey of Flavour

Our wines are a true expression of our unique terroir, with each varietal showcasing distinct characteristics that reflect the land and climate. Among our standout offerings, our Pinot Noir and Chardonnay have garnered particular acclaim. The Pinot Noir is celebrated for its elegant structure, vibrant fruit flavours, and subtle earthy undertones, making it a perfect companion for a variety of dishes. Our Chardonnay exhibits a beautiful balance of richness and acidity, with notes of stone fruits and a hint of oak, ideal for those who appreciate a classic yet refined white wine.

In addition to these signature varietals, our diverse portfolio includes the crisp and aromatic Riesling, the full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, and the smooth Merlot, ensuring that there is something for every wine lover to enjoy.

The Climate and Soil: A Perfect Combination

The climate at 3 Drops Winery plays a crucial role in producing high-quality wines. With warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, our Mediterranean climate allows for a long and gradual ripening period. This extended growing season enables the grapes to develop rich flavours and maintain a perfect balance of acidity. The cool nights further enhance the fruit’s freshness, ensuring vibrant characteristics in every bottle.

Our vineyard’s gravelly loam soils are equally significant, providing excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture to support healthy vine growth. The mineral-rich composition of the soil contributes unique flavour profiles to our grapes, enhancing their complexity and depth. This harmonious interplay between climate and soil allows us to create wines that truly reflect the essence of our terroir.

There are some wonderful reviews on the 3drops wine range from Wine Companion & Ray Jordan.