Greyton, Don’t you Forget it

Lismore, a “small” 23 hectare farm out in obscure Greyton, is producing some “stupendous” wines worth treating yourself to! You’ve probably heard fabled myths of the Viognier, and deservedly so. However, Samantha’s, the owner cum wine maker, Chardonnay is no slouch either.

Lismore Chardonnay 2011

I had the pleasure of trying (read savouring half a bottle of) her 2011 vintage whose grapes were fermented and matured in neutral French oak (the barrels having already been used about 3 or more times and therefore not imparting much oak flavour) over a duration of about a year in total. In addition, 30% of said grapes underwent natural fermentation (no addition of cultured/ “store-bought” yeast but rather allowing yeast found in the air and on grape skins to ferment the sugars).

The wine exhibits mineral flint, ground walnut infused savouriness, and a mid palate riddled with rich lemon and citrus fruit. It had tantalising vanilla and spice nuances that when allowed to open up, bore honey and quince bouquets; with its crisp salty edge holding steady throughout. Its sheer complexity dazzled, however, it was its impeccable balance that stood it apart; making every sip an unadulterated delight.

Having recently been fortunate to try more and more Burgundy Whites, yet still nowhere close to understanding the region; I had an inkling it more closely resembled them in style and not typical New World Chardonnays. Either way, I place it up there among my favourite whites…

 

Add a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *