From time to time, the blessing of virtually perfect climatic conditions can produce an exceptional vintage. The first of these was in 1999, when abundant winter and spring rainfall was followed by a warm, mild, yet sunny, ripening season. The fruit from this vintage was so outstanding, a small number of chardonnay parcels from the Clover Hill Vineyard were reserved to create the Cuvée Exceptionnelle Blanc de Blancs.
The 2012 Blanc de Blancs is a pale straw colour with a fine, persistent bead and mousse. The wine displays aromas of fresh melon that is underpinned by toasty notes and sweet cinnamon. The palate is bold and rich with flavours of fresh citric fruit with a persistent soft minerality the lingers on the finish.
This wine can be enjoyed now but will reward greatly if left to develop over the next 5-10 years.
