The original Tiers Vineyard Chardonnay planted in 1979 in the Piccadilly Valley was the first Adelaide Hills vineyard to unknown clones. The 2023 vintage was the coolest of the last 4 (inc 2020, 21, 22). It was even cooler than average and only 2nd coldest of the new millennium since the 2011 vintage.

The vineyard was picked over 2 days on April 12th and 13th, 2 weeks later than average, making it one of the latest ever harvests for Tapanappa. Cool fermentation in 1/3rd new French oak barriques. Maturation on full lees until November before being racked clear and bottled.

Tapanappa, Tiers Vineyard, Chardonnay, Piccadilly Valley, 2023

Pale lemon hue. Floral and fragrant. Pomme fruit and blossom, easy roast roast nut delicacy, soft honey, bread crust, ground salt and grapefruit pith.  Such flow and evenness with incredibly complex layers of fruit and winemaking that swirl and writhe seamlessly. Length and drive, finesse and power. Wondrous rich lines of grapefruit and stone fruit sewn together with taut filament and wrapped so gently, to create an exquisite, benchmark wine.

RRP: $110
Alc: 12.9%
Rating: 96/100

Wine sample courtesy of Tapanappa