Felton Road Block 2 Chardonnay Central Otago – 2022

Felton Road is one of the world’s most southerly producers, located in the Central Otago region of New Zealand’s south island. The winery was founded in 1991 and has been certified biodynamic since 2002. Their Block 2 vineyard was planted in 1992 and produces the estate’s finest Chardonnay each year.

“Citrus blossom, lemon zest and hallmark elderflower aromas that are typical from the lower lying, sheltered and east sloping Block 2. The palate introduces delicate white peach and melon, leading to a very pure and restrained mid-palate. It’s fine, elegant and transparent: the schist soils making their mark. Indigenous yeast and malolactic, not fined or filtered, minimal influence of oak (all as usual), makes for a very precise and site expressive  Chardonnay.” Blair Walter, winemaker

“Taut, linear, chardonnay with energy and precise power. Subtle white wildflowers compete for attention with citrus fruits including lime zest, yellow grapefruit and lemon curd. Initially shy, the wine quickly opened up revealing savoury, nutty yeast lees.” 96pts Bob Campbell MW January 2024

“The 2022 Block 2 Chardonnay was bottled, along with the Block 6 Chardonnay, in September 2023, as opposed to the 2022 Bannockburn Chardonnay which was bottled in May of 2023. The same winemaking (aside from a difference in the time spent in oak) across the cuvées serves to highlight the vineyard differences. This Block 2 is far more aromatically restrained and certainly hides the voluminous fruit behind a sheath of mineral phenolics. The wine is powerful but restrained and pure in its way. It’s lovely, with a gentle brine note through the finish. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.” 94/100pts The Wine Advocate