2022 Optume Chardonnay

Hand-picked over the space of 15 days from four clones drawn from six blocks, the fruit was selected at optimal ripeness across three specifically chosen vineyards. All fruit was hand-sorted and whole-bunch pressed, with the cloudy juice settled overnight before being transferred to a mix of concrete tulip tanks and select French oak barrels (55% new).

Natural fermentation commenced prior to inoculation with a specific varietally-enhancing yeast strain. The finished wines were matured on lees with minimal stirring for 12 months, before selection and blending in 2023, followed by a further seven months’ ageing on lees in concrete tulip. Only 1,336 bottles of this wine were produced.

The 2022 vintage presented ideal conditions for a regional expression of Chardonnay that reflects both place and season. By drawing fruit from across multiple sub-regions, we sought to create an exceptional wine that captures the individuality of each site while uniting them in a singular expression of balance and depth.

This Chardonnay combines richness, texture and aromatic complexity with finesse and restraint. The slow-building palate, layered with citrus, spice and savoury elements, carries through with precision and elegance. As with all Optume wines, decanting when young is advised to fully reveal the wine’s nuance and intensity. With its structure and concentration, the 2022 Optume Chardonnay will evolve beautifully over the next 15+ years.