Abrau-Durso Chardonnay 2018

Grape Varietals & Region: 100% Chardonnay. The terroir of Abrau-Durso includes a unique soft climate, an authentic composition of soils and a special compass rose of Caucasus foothills. The wind carries aromas of local nature into the vineyards, which the wine styles reflect. The winds of Abrau-Durso valley in the foothills of Navagir Mountains create a mixture of dry herb, steppe flowers, salty sea and fresh lake aromas.

Millions of years ago, Abrau-Durso vineyards were the ocean floor. Today, sea minerals give power to the vines. Limestone dominates the soils, which makes it similar to some of the world’s best winemaking areas (such as Chablis). The proximity of the Black Sea and the green forests of the North Caucasus National Park create the perfect conditions for Abrau-Durso’s vineyards. Located amphitheatrically in between green hills, they get the most of the sun. The proximity of the sea is especially important at night when the vines need a chill for the grapes to ripen in the right way.

Taste Profile: Elegant light straw colour with a golden hue. Refreshing bouquet of spiced vanilla, ripe white peach and meadow flowers. Silky texture, full-bodied and dry on the palate. Crisp green apple and sweet white peaches with mineral notes and subtle oak nuances that result in a long spicy vanilla finish.

Winemaking Process: Gentle pressing of grapes with stems. Meticulous control over the fermentation process allows the creation of exquisite taste and elegant aroma. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks and new Tonnellerie Vicard and Tonnellerie Francois Freres barriques. Malolactic fermentation emphasizes the features that identify the style of the wine. The wine ages on lees for at least 30 days, 20% in French oak, for 8 months.