Description

Yarra Valley, Heathcote, Nagambie – VIC

Stuart Dudine created Alkimi Wines out of a quest to sculpt wine by choosing parcels of grapes which reflect his winemaking philosophy. In his words; ‘To find vineyard parcels that perform exceptionally well where their roots lay, year in and year out. No matter the season, wet or dry, cool or warm’. Stuart currently focuses his attention on vineyards from the Yarra Valley, although he sources fruit from other parts of Victoria as well. He has a belief that Rhône varieties will thrive in the Yarra Valley, and is passionate in turning his dreams into reality. The symbolism of the Alkimi brand mark draws upon the basic representation of Alchemy through fire, water, air and earth.

93 Points – Mike Bennie, The Wine Front

The Marsanne grapes were sourced from Wattle Glen Vineyard. The vineyard is a small one acre block of unirrigated vines located in Mount Evelyn, Yarra Valley.

The grapes were handpicked on the 21st of February at moderate ripeness when the pear, subtle mascarpone notes with bright acidity were present. The grapes were whole bunch pressed to oak barrels for fermentation, no new oak was used. After fermentation the barrels were sulphured, topped and sat on yeast lees until November 2016, where the wine was then blended and bottled. Malolactic fermentation was inhibited.

The wine is filtered but unfined.

The appearance is golden. On the nose, there are aromas of beeswax, grapefruit, lime and sweet tones akin to almond brittle. Floral tones of star jasmine and white lily are present. The palate exhibits creamy, flinty tones with fruit notes of grapefruit, lime and green pear. Fuller honey, butterscotch and marzipan tones sit subtly in the wine and the finish is long and lasting.

Match this wine with grilled flathead, gremolata and crispy duck fat potatoes.

Although drinking well as a young wine, this wine shall reward careful cellaring for 10 years or more. 80 Dozen bottles produced.