2021 Streicker Blanc de Blancs
Blend
100% Chardonnnay
Vineyard
Bridgeland Vineyard, Karridale
Winemaking Note
The fruit for our sparkling is selected specifically for its acidity and the innate regional fruit characters that pre-dispose it to sparkling winemaking. The fruit is hand-picked, chilled and whole-cluster pressed to retain freshness and cultivate texture and structure. The juice is settled cold and racked after 2 days, harvesting only the lightest and most delicate grape solids to further aid in textural and aromatic development. The juice then undergoes primary alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel, and is sulphured pre-malolactic fermentation, in order to further preserve fresh fruit aromatics and pure acidity. It is then aged on its lees in stainless steel for 5 months and battonaged every two weeks to develop texture and additional palate complexity. The wine is clarified and stabilized, after which a fresh culture of yeast is added. The wine is then bottled under crown-seal and undergoes a second alcoholic fermentation in bottle, after which it is left on lees in bottle for an additional 36 months, providing a perfect balance of freshness and complexity, until disgorgement.
Vintage Conditions
The 2021 vintage began with a mild spring and sufficient rainfall. The La Niña weather system created a strong cyclone season in the north, resulting in unusual conditions throughout summer. December and January were warm and dry by comparison, and February saw large rain events and high humidity. High attention to detail was required in the vineyard to alleviate disease pressure, and those who put the extra work in, reaped the rewards. The 2021 whites have incredible flavour, with sauvignon blanc and early harvested chardonnay a standout.
Aroma
White pear, brioche and freshly risen bread dough, dotted with hints of jasmine, cashews and lemon zest.
Palate
Rich flavours of freshly browned brioche, nashi pear and citrus blossoms bristle atop a maelstrom of natural acidity, green plums and a delicate mousse. Fine tendrils of white fruit tannin and drive deliver a mineral finish or wet slate and mother of pearl.
Cellaring
Up to 4 years, however we enjoy it for freshness now.
Alcohol
13.5%