Pepper Tree Venus Block Chardonnay 2022 (75cl)

A Chardonnay from the high-altitude vineyards of Orange, New South Wales. The Venus Block sits above 600 metres, giving a prolonged ripening period that builds flavour while preserving natural acidity. Winemaking uses whole-bunch pressing, fermentation in new and seasoned French oak barriques, and extended maturation on lees. The result balances bright citrus and stone fruit with refined minerality and a creamy finish. Pale gold in the glass, with white peach, nectarine, lemon zest, toasted hazelnut, brioche and flinty minerality on the nose. The palate is precise and structured, with ripe orchard fruit, vibrant citrus acidity and a creamy texture, finishing long with saline minerality and a hint of vanilla bean.