Chardonnay Block 6 2017

FELTON ROAD

Chardonnay Block 6
2017

  • Organic
  • Biodynamic
Country
New Zealand
Regulated designation
Table wine
Region
South Island
Subregion
Central Otago
Varietal(s)
Chardonnay 100 %
Alcohol percentage
13.5%
Colour
White
Sugar
Dry
Producer's website

About this winery

Felton Road is an astonishing overnight success story. In just over 20 years Felton Road has become the global benchmark for New World pinot noir and has played a massive role in making Central Otago a new buzzword in the world of wine. Felton Road winemaker Blair Walter is an exceptional character, blessed equally with intellectual brilliance and extreme modesty. He is a captivating and insightful speaker, with the special ability to articulate complex ideas in such a way that they are made to...

See the FELTON ROAD detail page for more information on this brand

Tasting notes

Aromas of stonefruit and honeysuckle are immediately apparent. Our hands-off and transparent winemaking reveals the markers of Block 6 to take centre stage. This higher elevation and north-facing slope results in riper flavours with more opulence and breadth compared to the more mineral infused and tighter Block 2. A complexing chalkiness adds intrigue and mouthfeel to the finish which is supported by a fine, almost salty acidity.

Press reviews

Vinous

- 93 points -

Rebecca Gibb, November 2020 (Vintage 2019)

Felton Road's Block 6 is north-facing, so it receives more sun compared with the east-facing Block 2 Chardonnay. As a result, it's a little more generous in its ripeness and mouthfeel yet remains precise and focused. This midweight style has a streak of assertive acidity, commonly found in Chardonnays made from the Mendoza clone. However, 18 months in old oak has rounded its edges and imbued an almost savory, nutty edge to the lengthy finish. Can be enjoyed now but won't be going anywhere in a hurry.

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Jancis Robinson

16.5

(Vintage 2019)

Fruit from Block 6 of the Elms vineyard. Mendoza clone (vine age mostly 26 years). 16 months' élevage in older (minimum 5-year-old) oak.
Rather broader and more intense than the Block 2 with stone-fruit flavours on the palate and even a hint of popcorn. There is definite richness on the palate entry that must be quite unusual within New Zealand. A little more California than NZ? Long and well contained.

See detailed press review