Kooyong Clonale Chardonnay 2021

Winery Background and History

Kooyong Wines, established in 1995, is situated on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia. The estate spans approximately 40 hectares, with vineyards dedicated to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The name “Kooyong” is derived from the local Indigenous Australian language, meaning “where the wild fowl gather,” reflecting the area’s rich biodiversity. The winery is committed to sustainable viticulture, employing practices that promote soil health and biodiversity. Over the years, Kooyong has gained a reputation for producing wines that express the unique terroir of the Mornington Peninsula, focusing on site-specific expressions and minimal intervention winemaking techniques.

Producer and Winemaker

Kooyong is part of the Port Phillip Estate group, under the ownership of the Gjergja family. The winemaking team is led by Sandro Mosele, who has been with the estate since 2004. Mosele is renowned for his minimalist approach, allowing the characteristics of the vineyard to shine through in the wines. His philosophy emphasizes the importance of terroir, and he employs traditional winemaking methods to craft wines that are both expressive and balanced.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Clonale Chardonnay is sourced from Kooyong’s estate vineyards located in Tuerong, on the northern end of the Mornington Peninsula. The vineyards are planted on gentle slopes with soils composed of sedimentary clay loams, which provide good drainage and contribute to the mineral complexity of the wines. The Mornington Peninsula enjoys a maritime climate, characterized by cool breezes from Port Phillip Bay and Bass Strait. This cooling influence extends the growing season, allowing for slow and even ripening of the grapes, which helps in developing complex flavors while retaining natural acidity. The combination of soil composition and microclimate is ideal for cultivating Chardonnay, resulting in wines with elegance and depth.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2021 Clonale Chardonnay is crafted through a meticulous winemaking process that emphasizes purity and expression of fruit. The grapes are hand-harvested and undergo gentle whole-bunch pressing to extract the juice with minimal phenolic extraction. Fermentation occurs spontaneously with ambient yeasts in French oak barriques, of which approximately 7% are new. This natural fermentation process enhances the complexity and mouthfeel of the wine. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on its lees for nine months without stirring, which contributes to its textural richness and depth. The wine is then bottled without fining and with minimal filtration to preserve its integrity and character.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%

Tasting Notes

The 2021 Clonale Chardonnay presents a fresh and vibrant nose with aromas of floral notes, white pear, and lemon zest, complemented by hints of fresh cream and nougat. On the palate, it offers soft orchard fruit flavors, with a delicate lemon and grapefruit acidity that provides length and precision. The wine is well-balanced, with subtle oak support and a seamless finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its crisp acidity and fruit profile make it an excellent match for seafood, such as grilled prawns or seared scallops. It also complements poultry dishes, creamy pastas, and soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert. The wine’s balance and complexity enhance the flavors of these dishes without overpowering them.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the aromatic nuances and structure of the Clonale Chardonnay, it is recommended to serve the wine at a temperature between 10-12°C (50-54°F). Using a medium-sized white wine glass will allow the aromas to develop fully. Decanting is not necessary; however, opening the bottle 15-20 minutes before serving can help the wine to open up and reveal its full spectrum of flavors.

Storage and Aging Potential

While the 2021 Clonale Chardonnay is approachable and enjoyable in its youth, it also has the potential to develop additional complexity with short-term cellaring. When stored in optimal conditions—away from light, at a consistent temperature of around 12°C (54°F), and with moderate humidity—the wine can evolve over the next 3 to 5 years, gaining in richness and depth.