2023, Felton Road, Block 6, Chardonnay

The higher elevation and north facing slope of Block 6 has again ripened with stone fruit aromas that are exuberant and defining. Peach and nectarine flavours dominate the broad and expansive palate, but are sufficiently contained by a finish of purity and dancing acidity. The depth and length are impressive. Uncomplicated by unnecessary intervention, it's an accurate and compelling expression of Block 6, Elms Vineyard. feltonroad.com 

The mouth-filling 2023 Chardonnay Block 6 offers a touch of ripe apple fruit while never becoming big, thanks to that cool-climate line of acidity. It exudes subtly fragrant, delicate floral tones alongside the almond and pastry character from extended time on lees. This was delicately handled with a very subtle oak influence, allowing the savory fruit and precision on the finish to shine. It can be approached now, whereas Block 2 needs more time. This was done with 6% new oak and aged for 17 months in barrel. 94 Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous (2024).

Tasted alongside the Block 2, this 2023 Block 6 Chardonnay feels far more cohesive and resolved. Still tropical, and with viscose-like weight in the mouth, the wine evokes words like "exotic," "opulent" and "sophisticated." The wine is nutty and salty and full of flavor, the acidity tucked into the layers of fruit in the mouth. Very good. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. 93 Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate (2025).

A little more obviously oaky than the Block 2 but not overdone. Salty, very dry, much more place than variety. Mouth-watering citrus but not a fruity wine. Very long, highly strung. 17.5 Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com (2024).

Richer style, lots of lees weight. Very long and reverberating acidity. Spicy, evolving fruit with soft apple/stone-fruit and a complex, layered finish. Pithy minerality. 96 Stephen Wong MW, The Real Review (2024).

Complex aromas of Mayer lemons, lime curd, orange blossoms, phosphorus and yellow apples on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied with finely integrated acidity and a creamy texture, carrying notes of stone fruit supported by hints of puff pastry and mandarin pith. Generous with an underlying tension. Excellent. Drink or hold. Screw cap. 96 James Suckling, jamessuckling.com (2024).

Drinking Window: 2025 - 2034