Alkimi Chardonnay Willow Lake Vineyard 2021

This is the first release of the Willow Lake Chardonnay, a block that sits on the lowest altitude in the range at 160 metres above sea level. Wild fermentation, zero malolactic fermentation with nine months on lees. Pressed mineral powder, jasmine blossom and white grapefruit. Raw candlenut, aloe and morning rain. The wine has a purity of yellow citrus with a zing of feijoa and grated lime zest. The decision to abstain from malolactic fermentation is the right choice here, it captures the energy of the wine and allows it to radiate across the palate. A nutmeg and shortbread flavour lingers on the finish to complete a moreish wine with lots of poise. Drink now and will cellar for 7-8 years. Serve with a leek and potato tart.

Shanteh Wale

Contributor at Wine Companion

Shanteh cut her teeth at Sydney’s Award-Winning Quay restaurant where she worked for over a decade and was Head Sommelier from 2018 till 2022. She has been nominated for the Good Food Guide Sommelier of the Year award on three occasions and claims that her experience as a Len Evans scholar as one of the highlights of her career. Shanteh hosts her own weekly podcast ‘Over A Glass’ with the Deep in the Weeds Network and spends her time writing for various publications and judging at numerous wine shows across the country.

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