Dexter Black Label Chardonnay

Dexter Black Label Chardonnay is crafted from 40-year-old vines, combining Dijon and P58 clones picked separately at optimal ripeness to capture both concentration and precision. After overnight chilling, the fruit underwent gentle whole-bunch pressing and careful oxidative handling before fermentation in second-fill 500L French oak puncheons. Partial natural malolactic fermentation and extended lees ageing, with occasional stirring, built texture and depth, followed by 10 months of bottle maturation to further refine structure and complexity.

Aromatically, the wine opens with preserved lemon, white florals and allspice, layered with subtle notes of candle wax and citrus intensity. The palate is concentrated and tightly wound, revealing deep layers of lemon rind, lemon curd and gentle cinnamon spice, supported by refreshing acidity and a fine, textural richness. Hints of white tannin carry the wine through a long, structured finish, balancing generosity with precision.

Powerful yet refined, this is a generous and refreshing Chardonnay that drinks beautifully now, while also offering excellent cellaring potential. A precise expression of mature vines in a mild season, delivering both depth and finesse.