Madison Ridge Chardonnay

The vines of Madison Ridge are grown in Riverina, an appellation located in New South Wales (Australia) near the border with Victoria. Hot, dry summers provide a long ripening period for grapes. The soils here are dominated by clay and silty loam left by the rivers that created the plain.

 Madison Ridge Chardonnay vines are approximately 19-years-old and grown on a hillside about 120 meters above sea level. Parcels of Chardonnay grapes were harvested in early February during the cool, summer nights. The grapes were handled protectively, keeping them cool during crush to inhibit wild yeast fermentation. Partial clarification was followed by inoculation with an aromatic yeast to enhance the bright fruit flavors. French oak treatment was used during fermentation and an additional two months of maturation in French oak adds warm spice and complexity to this wine.

This Chardonnay appears pale straw with youthful green tints. It displays aromas of ripe peach and nectarine that are underscored by vanilla and a touch of cashew. On the palate, stone fruit and citrus notes are well-integrated with hints of oak, marked by baking spice and a round, creamy finish. We recommend pairing with the delicate/light flavors of crab salad with Caesar vinaigrette or other shellfish and other subtly seasoned dishes to avoid overpowering the wine.