Byrne Farm Chardonnay 2019

Byrne Farm Chardonnay is a certified organic, cool-climate Chardonnay from old vines on Mount Canobolas.

Three plots within the Balmoral block at Nashdale supply the fruit, growing in volcanic chocolate ferrosol at 880 metres on a northeast-facing slope. At close to thirty years these are among the oldest vines in Orange. Picking fell in the last week of February, early by local standards and a mark of a warmer than average season, and the bunches went whole into the press before 500-litre French puncheons for primary fermentation. Half the wood was new: tight-grained, steam-bent barrels from the Mâconnais, chosen to focus fruit without leaving a flavour. Given the power of the year, no malolactic conversion. Nine months in barrel with monthly bâtonnage.

White flowers, white stone fruit and wet stone, with nashi pear and a flicker of reduction over the top. Chiselled and sinuous in the mouth, the acid cutting clean through a concentrated middle. Serve at 12 degrees alongside grilled flathead, chicken and leek pie, or pipis.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.