Vintners' Brunch

Matua Valley Wines Ltd

Ararimu Chardonnay 2003

Ararimu Wines are only produced in exceptional years from the most select parcels of fruit. This premium wine represents the pinnacle of Matua Valley winemaking abilities and is our pride & joy. A fitting wine for The Vintners’ Brunch and the first time Matua Valley has presented this wine.

As it represents the best of the best, the regionality of these wines can differ as the winemakers & viticulturists identify where their premium parcels of fruit come from each vintage. This selection process starts in the vineyard before harvest but continues well into the vinification and maturation process and is one of continuous refinement and reselection.

This Ararimu Chardonnay 2003 has been produced from grapes grown in Gisborne region and specifically from our Judd Estate vineyard, a fertile region and vineyard that produces a distinctive style of Chardonnay. The 2003 vintage was affected by spring frosts resulting in small crops of quality fruit.

The grapes were hand harvested and gently whole bunch pressed to maximise their distinctive flavours. The free run juice was cold settled then racked straight to new French Oak barriques for ferment using indigenous yeasts. Extended lees stirring over two months occurred to enhance flavour, aroma and the texture of the wine. A minimal percentage underwent malolactic fermentation and then the wine was matured in the French oak for 11 months. This wine is made for long term cellaring and is just starting to fully develop and is not far away from its best drinking potential in our opinion.

The Ararimu Chardonnay is a complex wine style. The palate is delicate with concentrated fruit intensity and toasty yeastiness. This matches beautifully with the richness of the truffle butter encased duck liver parfait from The Hunting Lodge. Chef Grant Mathie`s orange compote & pomegranate sauce gives that tart citrus lift that links seamlessly with the light citrus and spice notes in the wine. A truly mouth watering and well rounded wine and food match, enjoy!

Matua Valley Wines Ltd
Waikoukou Valley Road, Waimauku, Auckland
P: 09 411 8301
sales@matua.co.nz

Matched with Duck Liver Parfait from Hunting Lodge