COLOUR
White
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2019
GRAPE
Chardonnay
PRODUCER
Lake Chalice Wines
REGION
Marlborough
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Full
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
Medium - High
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
Lake Chalice The Raptor Chardonnay 2019 is a single-varietal Chardonnay from the Marlborough region of New Zealand. Produced by Lake Chalice Wines, a family-owned winery established in 1989, the wine originates from the Wairau Valley. The winery's philosophy emphasizes capturing the diverse microclimates and terroir of the region through a boutique winemaking approach. The wine's identity is linked to the endemic New Zealand Falcon (Kārearea), with the winery supporting its conservation efforts. The 2019 vintage is noted for its elegance and balance.
ALCOHOL
13.5%
AVG. PRICE
STYLE
Classic
VEGAN
YES
SULPHITES
NO
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
9-10°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
The wine is named after the Kārearea, New Zealand's endemic falcon.
Fact 02
Fruit is sourced from mature vines in the Reed vineyard, Wairau Valley.
Fact 03
100% of the juice undergoes wild fermentation without cultured yeasts.
Fact 04
The wine is vegan-friendly.
FOOD PAIRING
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WINE MAKING PROCESS
The winemaking process for Lake Chalice The Raptor Chardonnay 2019 begins with hand-picked fruit from the Reed vineyard in the Wairau Valley. Parcels of grapes undergo whole-bunch pressing to enhance complexity. The resulting juice is fermented in French oak barriques, utilizing a mix of new and one-year-old vessels. Notably, 100% of the juice undergoes wild fermentation without cultured yeasts. A full malolactic secondary fermentation occurs naturally. Following fermentation, the wine matures on its own lees in barrel for around 10 months, contributing to its palate and flavor development.
