Freedom Hill, Chardonnay, 2023
The Freedom Hill Vineyard occupies a sheltered south-eastern slope of ancient sedimentary seabed on the Coastal Range. It is planted with Dijon 76 and 95 clones, which are co-pressed and fermented in 228, 350L and 500L barrels for 12 months and finished for 3 months in stainless steel tank. Tempting reductive notes mingle with hints of ripe peach, jasmine, citrus and flint. This is a broader, more concentrated style with layers of crunchy, ripe apple and pear. There’s a sense of generosity and incredible energy to the broad, concentrated fruit. So vibrant and intense. One is left with a glorious, saline, mineral finish. Brimming with energy.
critic reviews
The 2023 Chardonnay Freedom Hill Vineyard comes from Dijon clone vines planted in 1995, 2010 and 2015. It was barrel-fermented and matured in 50% new, 228-, 350- and 500-liter French oak for 12 months, plus an additional three months in stainless steel. It has alluring aromas of apples, pears, apricot, jasmine, matchstick and crème brûlée. The medium-bodied palate is bursting with layered, perfumed flavors. It’s balanced by mouthwatering acidity and has a long, flinty finish. It will benefit from time in the cellar. 425 cases were made.
The 2023 Chardonnay Freedom Hill Vineyard mixes nuances of ginger with crushed rocks, white smoke, incense and lemon oil. Silken and pliant, it envelops the palate with ripe orchard fruit. A cascade of inner florals arches across the senses, and an air of candied lime adds depth toward the close. Flinty and mineral intense, the 2023 finishes with contrasting sweet and sour tones while leaving a sensation of balanced structure. A fantastic rendition of Freedom Hill Chardonnay.