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“In Bannockburn, Chardonnay embodies Te Ao, the world of light that dispels the darkness. Between oak barrels and amphorae, it reveals a duality between heritage and renewal, where the inner tension of the fruit shapes a pure and radiant expression. For me, Akarua Chardonnay is an illumination — a flash of light in the shadows.”
Anne Escalle, Estate Manager
APPELLATION : Central Otago- Bannockburn
HEAD WINEMAKER : Léonardo Ricardez
TERROIR : Light-textured alluvial soils overlying schist bedrock. VINEYARD AREA : 3,7ha
AVERAGE VINE AGE : 29 years
CULTIVATION : Akaruafollows a regenerative viticulture philosophy, with practices that enrich soils, eliminate chemical inputs and promote long-term natural balance. The estate is currently undergoing organic conversion.
HARVEST : Hand Picking, from March 27 to April 5.
WINEMAKING :The Chardonnay grapes were carefully hand-harvested, then gently whole-bunch pressed. The juice was left to settle overnight before being transferred to barrels and amphorae for a long fermentation, followed by full malolactic fermentation. The wine was then stirred weekly for approximately seven months.
AGING: French oak barrels, 31% of which are new, along with a 1,000-litre stoneware amphora.
BLEND : 100% Chardonnay
ALCOHOL : 13%
CELLARING POTENTIAL : Excellent ageing potential through 2029
TASTING NOTES
To the eye, the wine displays a pale golden straw colour with bright, clear highlights. Its luminous appearance reflects both maturity and elegance. The first nose is expressive and refined, revealing aromas of stone fruit and melon, lifted by delicate notes of citrus blossom. With aeration, more complex nuances of brioche and flint emerge, adding depth and sophistication to the aromatic profile.Onthe palate, the attack is dry and precise, quickly giving way to a beautifully ripe expression. Flavours of peach, pear and quince unfold harmoniously, complemented by hints of lemon curd and subtly toasty oak. The wine shows fine balance between richness, freshness and concentration, resulting in a generous yet controlled texture.Thefinish is long and persistent, carried by elegant stone fruit notes. This wine shows excellent ageing potential and will continue to evolve gracefully through 2029.
