We are constantly on the search for quality Chardonnay to retail at less than $20 and very rarely do we find something that has had the works in the winery. Leveret Estate is fully barrel fermented with wild yeast, and is then left to mature in barrel for 18 months with regular lees stirring. The result is worthy of many more dollars as this is rich and full Chardonnay with ripe stonefruit characters tempered with a slice of citrus, a lovely little touch of struck match complexity and a gorgeously decadent creaminess.
Winery notes (2020 Vintage)
"A beautiful single vineyard Chardonnay from the stunning Riverview site. Rich and complex with aromas of rockmelon, and crème brûlée, layered over toasted hazelnuts. The generous palate weaves grilled grapefruit and toasty oak seamlessly together.
The grapes for this wine were hand harvested at our Riverview Winery. The fruit was pressed direct to barrel where it was allowed to undergo wild fermentation. Following fermentation the wine was inoculated for Malolactic fermentation. After approximately 18 months in oak, the wine was transferred to our Katikati winery for finishing and bottling."
92/100 Cameron Douglas MS, July 2021 (2020 Vintage)
"Calm, elegant and fragrant with aromas of peaches and whipped cream, vanilla and apple, wood smoke and nut. On the palate – full bodied expression with flavours in reserve of the nose – wood smoke and vanilla, apple and peach. A mix of wood tannins and medium+ acidity layer in mouthfeel and contrast while the core of fruits showcase the youth and freshness. A balance and well made wine with plenty of length and lots of harmony. Best drinking from purchase and through 2025+."
4 Stars Michael Cooper (2020 Vintage)
"Offering good value, the 2020 vintage was fermented and lees-aged for a year in French oak barrels (20 per cent new). Bright, light lemon/green, it is a powerful wine, full-bodied, with generous, ripe stonefruit flavours, and buttery and toasty notes adding complexity. A 'full-on' style, it's a drink-now or cellaring proposition."
Reviews for previous vintages below…
4 Stars Winestate Magazine (2019 Vintage)
"Offering good value… Mouthfilling and vibrantly fruity, it has ripe stonefruit flavours, gently seasoned with toasty oak, fresh acidity and considerable complexity."