Tasting Notes

FELTON ROAD BLOCK 2 CHARDONNAY QUARTET

 
FELTON ROAD wines is located in Bannockburn, Central Otago in New Zealand, the most southerly wine growing region in the World. Here, vineyards are nestled into small macroclimates totally surrounded by high mountains, many of which are snowcapped all year round. Though the location is on the edge of sustainable viticulture these macroclimates consistently combine hot days, cool nights and long dry autumns. The latitude of 45 degrees south is similar to the Willamette Valley in Oregon and some of the finest wine regions of France. "Both of Felton Road's Pinot Noirs are breakthrough efforts in New Zealand, and compete with the finest wines being made in California, Oregon and Burgundy's Cote D'Or. — The Wine Advocate; Robert Parker
 
Each pack includes the following 6 wines (750ml):
1 x 2023 Block 2 Chardonnay (New!)
1 x 2022 Block 2 Chardonnay (JH 96pts)
1 x 2021 Block 2 Chardonnay (JS 94pts)
1 x 2019 Block 2 Chardonnay (BC 95pts)

2023 Block 2 Chardonnay
[ New Release! ] An enticing nose of lemon and elderflower blossom, citrus notes and crushed stones, sets the scene for this vineyard expressive Chardonnay. It’s all about the schist soils, the ideal growing season, carefully guided and gently raised, rather than winemaking. The harmoniously integrated acidity tightens the core, giving length and focus. A classic Block 2 that speaks eloquently to its usual fine and elegant style. – Winery note

2022 Block 2 Chardonnay
The 2022 Block 2 chardonnay leads in with aromas of tight white peach and yellow stone fruits, along with green apple, citrus fruits, soft spice, nougat, grilled nuts, white flowers, crushed river stone and a curious whiff of chilled chicken broth. Tight and detailed with a beautifully taut palate shape and sense of clarity. Just a squeak of phenolics lends a wonderful textural aspect and the wine accelerates away on rails of minerally acidity, finishing savoury, stony and packed with umami. – 96pts, Dave Brookes for James Halliday's Wine Companion

2021 Block 2 Chardonnay
A fantastic chardonnay with a creamy, stoney and deliciously fruity, balanced palate with lively acidity. Poised and harmonious. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification.  – 94pts, James Suckling 

Fine-boned pinot noir that was a little closed initially but soon opened up with a few swirls of the glass. Restrained cherry/berry fruit is intertwined with savoury characters suggesting roast chestnut, toasted nut and spice flavours. Very classy wine that needs time to reveal its true potential. Drink 2022-2039. – 97pts, Bob Campbell MW

2019 Block 2 Chardonnay
From vines planted in 1992, which is certainly old by Central Otago standards. Taut, high-energy chardonnay with pronounced oyster-shell and mineral characters, lime blossom, ginger and nutty yeast lees flavours. Should develop well with bottle age. – 95pts, Bob Campbell MW