COLOUR
White
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2022
GRAPE
Chardonnay
PRODUCER
Saint Clair Family Estate
REGION
Marlborough
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Medium
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
Medium - Low
Finish
Long
Intensity
Mid - Pronounced
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
The Saint Clair Vicar's Choice Barrel Chardonnay 2022 is a 100% Chardonnay from Marlborough, New Zealand. Produced by Saint Clair Family Estate, a family-owned winery founded by pioneers Neal and Judy Ibbotson, the wine is a reflection of the estate's dedication to quality. Marlborough's cool climate and ample sunshine are key to the grape's development. A distinctive feature of this wine's creation is the fermentation of approximately half the Chardonnay in oak barrels, with the remainder in stainless steel tanks, aiming for a balance of freshness and textural complexity. The name 'Vicar's Choice' suggests a carefully selected parcel of fruit.
ALCOHOL
12.5%
AVG. PRICE
€10
STYLE
Classic
SULPHITES
NO
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
8-10°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
Half the wine is fermented in oak, the other half in stainless steel.
Fact 02
Grapes are hand-harvested at night to preserve freshness.
Fact 03
Saint Clair Family Estate is a pioneer in Marlborough viticulture.
Fact 04
The 'Vicar's Choice' name suggests a special selection of grapes.
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The Saint Clair Vicar's Choice Barrel Chardonnay 2022 is produced from 100% Chardonnay grapes. A key winemaking decision involves fermenting roughly half of the wine in oak barrels, while the other half is fermented in stainless steel tanks. This dual approach aims to create a wine with both textural complexity from the oak and vibrant freshness from the stainless steel. The grapes are hand-harvested at night to ensure optimal fruit quality and freshness. The wine's aging process is influenced by its time in oak barrels, contributing to its overall profile.
