COMING SOON - FRIDAY 14 AUGUST
Handpicked on 12 March 2024 and whole-bunch pressed, transferred to French hogsheads. This vintage also didn’t see any settling or clarification — a pure expression of site and season. Natural fermentation took place in new and seasoned 300L hogsheads. Malolactic fermentation was intentionally blocked, preserving the wine's natural acidity and precision. After 12 months in barrel, the new oak component was stirred and transferred to a third-use hogsheads, where the entire wine remained on lees for a further four months. Bâtonnage was conducted three times over the winter months, with the wine being transferred after 11 months into older, neutral oak for another five months. The total élevage being 16 months in oak, prior to bottling.
A wine of striking presence and restraint, the 2024 Granjoux Chardonnay opens with aromas of white peach, lemon curd and preserved citrus, layered with almond meal, crushed fennel seed and fine cedar spice. Beneath the fruit lies a distinctive mineral character that speaks clearly of Beechworth: flint, wet stone and a subtle smoky reduction weaving through the bouquet. While the oak is evident in its youth, it sits confidently within the wine's architecture, framing rather than dominating the fruit.
The palate is powerful yet composed, combining concentration with precision. White stone fruits and mandarin pith are carried by a taut acid line, while extended lees maturation lends a creamy texture without sacrificing energy. The gentle bâtonnage and careful oak handling contribute subtle grip and structure, with savoury phenolics adding tension through the long, mineral finish. Layers of crushed rock, fine herbs and roasted nuts emerge as the wine opens, revealing increasing complexity with air.
True to its place and philosophy, this is a Chardonnay built on geological expression rather than overt richness. There is both authority and finesse here — a wine that rewards patience, with its depth, structure and mineral drive set to unfold beautifully over time. Best from 2027, with confident cellaring through 2035.
2024 Tasting Notes
COMING SOON - FRIDAY 14 AUGUST
Handpicked on 12 March 2024 and whole-bunch pressed, transferred to French hogsheads. This vintage also didn’t see any settling or clarification — a pure expression of site and season. Natural fermentation took place in new and seasoned 300L hogsheads. Malolactic fermentation was intentionally blocked, preserving the wine's natural acidity and precision. After 12 months in barrel, the new oak component was stirred and transferred to a third-use hogsheads, where the entire wine remained on lees for a further four months. Bâtonnage was conducted three times over the winter months, with the wine being transferred after 11 months into older, neutral oak for another five months. The total élevage being 16 months in oak, prior to bottling.
A wine of striking presence and restraint, the 2024 Granjoux Chardonnay opens with aromas of white peach, lemon curd and preserved citrus, layered with almond meal, crushed fennel seed and fine cedar spice. Beneath the fruit lies a distinctive mineral character that speaks clearly of Beechworth: flint, wet stone and a subtle smoky reduction weaving through the bouquet. While the oak is evident in its youth, it sits confidently within the wine's architecture, framing rather than dominating the fruit.
The palate is powerful yet composed, combining concentration with precision. White stone fruits and mandarin pith are carried by a taut acid line, while extended lees maturation lends a creamy texture without sacrificing energy. The gentle bâtonnage and careful oak handling contribute subtle grip and structure, with savoury phenolics adding tension through the long, mineral finish. Layers of crushed rock, fine herbs and roasted nuts emerge as the wine opens, revealing increasing complexity with air.
True to its place and philosophy, this is a Chardonnay built on geological expression rather than overt richness. There is both authority and finesse here — a wine that rewards patience, with its depth, structure and mineral drive set to unfold beautifully over time. Best from 2027, with confident cellaring through 2035.
2024 Tasting Notes
