The 2021 growing season was almost as cool as 2020, but significantly wetter because of La Niña. Picking began early March and ripening was nicely paced across the different sites over a two-week period. Fruit came to the winery in very good condition and was all whole bunch pressed to tank for settling overnight before racking to barrels.
A core of fresh citrus acids, stone fruits, minerality and mouth filling texture are always components of this wine. Subtle winemaking inputs and the generous flavour of our site offer a classic expression of Bannockburn Chardonnay.
95 points. Whole-bunch pressed, fermented wild in French hogsheads and puncheons (20% new), 10 months on lees, partial mlf. True to the Bannockburn style which offers both power and finesse. The former is set in structure and solid in body. The latter is all about a world of marvellous fruit and oak flavours: mandarin skin, nectarine, white peach, buttered toast, almond bread, quince paste. It's dense, lifted by a citrusy acidity that is just so cleansing, so right. Jeni Port, winecompanion.com.au.
94 points. Bannockburn chardonnay is never short of flavour and so to this release, though the fresh zing of the finish brings a more modern twist, arguably. Pear, grapefruit, peach, cracked wheat and cedar flavours come strong and convincing, aided by citrus and fennel notes, the latter especially notable on the finish. The flavour of tinned pear here is as strong as it is delicious, it must be noted. This is an excellent release; it’s good for drinking now but it has many years up its sleeve. Campbell Mattinson, winefront.com.au.
