The 2023 Hoddles Creek Estate Chardonnay is a product of meticulous winemaking processes that emphasise minimal intervention and natural expression of the vineyard's characteristics. Here are some key details:

Harvesting:
All fruit is hand-picked in the cool morning light to preserve freshness and acidity.
Processing: Grapes are immediately de-stemmed and lightly crushed into the press. No enzymes are used; instead, the juice is allowed to settle naturally.
Fermentation: In 2023, the winery conducted approximately fifteen different ferments. These were allowed to start naturally on full solids. After some time, portions of the juice were inoculated with cultured yeast and transferred to wooden barrels for fermentation.
Aging: The wine is aged on lees for about 11 months, which adds complexity and texture. A light touch of new oak is used to enhance the wine's structure.
Blending: Just before bottling, all clones are blended, cold stabilized, fined, and filtered to ensure clarity and stability.
The resulting wine displays a bouquet of citrus and stone fruits, with a palate that combines pineapple, citrus, and nectarine flavours. The light oak influence provides additional complexity and a well-rounded finish.

Winery Background:
Hoddles Creek Estate is a family-owned winery located in the Upper Yarra Valley, a region known for its cool climate and ideal conditions for viticulture. The winery was established by the D’Anna family, who have been involved in the wine industry for generations. Franco D’Anna, the current winemaker, has a reputation for producing high-quality wines that are both expressive and affordable.

Vineyard Practices:
The estate follows sustainable and organic practices wherever possible, focusing on the health of the vineyard and the environment.
The cool climate of the Upper Yarra Valley allows for a longer growing season, which helps in developing complex flavours and maintaining natural acidity in the grapes.

Awards and Recognition:
Hoddles Creek Estate wines have consistently received high praise from critics and wine lovers alike. The 2023 Chardonnay, in particular, has been noted for its balance, intensity of fruit, and overall quality, making it a standout in the Yarra Valley.

Now to 5+

The 2023 Hoddles Creek Estate Chardonnay is a testament to the winery's commitment to producing high-quality wines with minimal intervention. All fruit is hand-picked in the early morning, ensuring optimal freshness. The grapes are de-stemmed and lightly crushed into the press without the use of enzymes, allowing the juice to settle naturally. This vintage saw approximately fifteen different ferments, which started naturally on full solids. Some of the juice was inoculated with cultured yeast and then transferred to wooden barrels for fermentation. The wine is left on lees for about 11 months, adding complexity and texture before it is blended, cold stabilized, fined, and filtered just before bottling.

The wine exhibits a bouquet of citrus and stone fruits, while the palate offers a harmonious blend of pineapple, citrus, and nectarine. The light touch of new oak enhances the wine's structure, providing a well-rounded and balanced profile. With a good length and vibrant acidity, this Chardonnay is both refreshing and sophisticated.

Hoddles Creek Estate, located in the Upper Yarra Valley, benefits from a cooler climate and meticulous vineyard management. This attention to detail is reflected in the high quality and exceptional value of their wines. Franco D’Anna, the winemaker, emphasizes crafting wines that express the purity and character of the region.