EASTHOPE FAMILY WINEGROWERS
202o ‘OLD OAK’ HAWKE'S BAY, CHARDONNAY

Hand picked, 100% whole bunch pressed, unfined.

Now this is an interesting kettle of Chardonnay which challenges contemporary examples of this variety.

“Old Oak” refers as much to the fact that this was matured in an old oak barrel, as it does to what an old oak tree represents; timelessness, strength and sheer presence.

Grown in our Home Block, this limited-edition Chardonnay was vinified using techniques of yesteryear.  Once destemmed the juice was allowed to steep in contact with the grape skins for a few days.  The naturally fermenting must was then basket pressed to an old oak barrique and time did the rest.

Initially it is gloriously golden in the glass, but with time and air, pale straw and green hues emerge. The colour alone hints at the complexity of character within. Aromatically this Chardonnay confounds with characters of peach pip, lemonwood, nougat, and a hint of marzipan. On the palate there is a woody sappiness from the vine, not the barrel. This textural imprint is coated with ample fruit derived viscosity. It is warming, persistent and challenging, but ultimately a thrilling example of how Chardonnay can truly represent site and craft.

You can almost treat this like a red wine experience. So, we recommend a large glass and rich cuisine to match our “Old Oak” Chardonnay.  Any dish using lots of butter or cream will do the trick.

For those who want more detail, download the PDF here.