Moko Hills Chardonnay 2023

Vintage

The 2023 vintage was a rare continuation of a 3-year long La Niña cycle  - a warm and very dry season with little wind. This was followed by a long protracted dry spell, with plenty of warmth - a warmer-than-average season.

As a result of the low soil moisture levels, vines set with very small berries on compact bunches bringing great wine concentration and tannin structure.

The weather began to cool post veraison, and the season finished off with a cool steady ripening period.

Wine Making

The fruit contained an even mix of three Chardonnay clones – UCD15, 548 and B95. Whole bunch pressed and full solids to 100% French oak. 10% new in large format 400 litre puncheons. Fermented with natural yeast. Lees-stirring was employed on occasion to promote finishing to dry. 12 months in barrel, and allowed to undergo malolactic fermentation naturally in spring, before being racked to tank and allowed to integrate.

Hand Harvested: 4th April 2023

Bottled on the 14th April 2024 unfined and unfiltered.  

pH: 3.35

TA: 6.2g/L

Alcohol: 13.5% v/v 

The Chardonnay Label - Kowhai

Each wine has a unique art piece, representing a group of species that embody the encapsulated characteristics of the wine. A homage to these species and a promise of protection.

The Chardonnay label is adorned with the native South Island kōwhai (Sophora microphylla). One of eight kōwhai species in New Zealand.

The kōwhai is accompanied by both the European Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) and it’s native counter parts, two Leioproctus Bees. Both these species are integral in pollinating not only the kōwhai, but a range of plant species found at Moko Hills.

Kōwhai is the Māori word for yellow and the name of the Chardonnay block at Moko Hills. Pockets of mature kōwhai overlook the chardonnay block, adorning the hills with a golden yellow come spring. This block is the highest in altitude at Moko Hills at 350 – 370m above sea level, sitting in a natural amphitheatre trapping the afternoon heat. This heat, accompanied with the clay soils, brings richness and depth to the wine while the altitude creates elegance and tension.

Artwork created by the talented Rachel Walker | Walkerillo