Below & Above Chardonnay 2022

Tasting Notes

• Colour – Golden straw with brilliant clarity.

• Aromas – Pronounced white peach, ripe pear, Meyer lemon zest, with hints of crushed flint, freshly churned butter, and delicate white blossoms.

• Palate – Vibrant citrus from Gingin, refined stone fruit from Clone 76, toasted hazelnut, and fresh-baked brioche.

• Finish – Long, mineral-driven, with refreshing acidity.

Accolades

Ray Jordan – 94 Points
This Pemberton vineyard is really starting to kick some goals, and this is a wonderful example of chardonnay now coming from the property. On the nose, there’s crunchy grapefruit and cut pear, with a little squeeze of lemon. The palate has a slight creamy feel to it, but it’s still quite fine and controlled, with a deep and lingering finish. There’s a crunchy vibrancy here that captures the region perfectly.

Food Pairings

• Poached Exmouth King Prawns with Mango Salsa – Enhances the wine’s citrus and mineral notes.

• Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Thyme – Complements the wine’s savoury and textural elements.

• Soft Cheeses like Brie or Camembert – Pairs well with the wine’s creamy texture and acidity.

• Grilled Barramundi with Herb Butter – Accentuates the wine’s freshness and complexity.

Winemaking & Vintage Notes

• Clonal Composition – 63% Gingin, 37% Burgundy Clone 76.

• Fermentation & Maturation – Whole cluster pressed, fermented and matured sur lie in 228-litre French oak barrels (1/3 new) from Allier and Vosges forests for 10 months. Partial malolactic fermentation to balance acidity.

• Vintage Conditions – A warmer summer with adjusted leaf cover to maximise benefits of warming and drying conditions.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Serving Temperature – 12°C to highlight its complexity and balance. If being stored in the fridge, leave it out for 15 minutes prior to drinking.

• Cellaring Potential – Enjoy now or cellar for up to 10 years to develop further complexity.

• Decanting – Not required, but decanting for an hour will only enhance the wines aromas and flavours.

FAQ 🤔

What makes this vintage unique?
The introduction of Burgundy Clone 76 alongside Gingin adds complexity and a refined texture, elevating the wine’s profile.

Is this wine suitable for ageing?
Yes, it has excellent cellaring potential and will continue to evolve over the next decade.

What food pairs best with this wine?
It’s versatile and pairs well with seafood, poultry, soft cheeses, and dishes featuring creamy or buttery elements.

Additional Info

• Grape Variety – Chardonnay (63% Gingin, 37% Burgundy Clone 76)

• Region – Pemberton, Western Australia

• Alcohol – 13.5% ABV

• Cellaring Potential – Up to 10 years

• Closure – Screwcap

• Maturation – 10 months in French oak barrels (1/3 new)