2022 Patrick Sullivan 'Bullswamp' Chardonnay

Bullswamp is Patrick's richest most intensely fruited single vineyard Chardonnay. 

Planted in 1982, Bull Swamp vines grow in deep, rich volcanic soil with full sunlight and exposure. The resulting grapes are rich, ripe and produce wine of great power.

The 2022 Bullswamp Chardonnay is complex from the get-go. On the nose - distinctive toasted hazelnut, vanilla and spice. The palate is intense and concentrated - buttery, fresh-baked bread, citrus curd and nectarine. There is tight, citrussy acidity and fine, chalky tannin structure throughout. The finish is long and very satisfying.

From Patrick:

The Bullswamp vineyard was planted in 1982 by the Farrington family in the early 1980’s on the very edge of the Warragul township. The Bullswamp Chardonnay comes from the oldest plantings of P58 clone on a north facing aspect of the site. Deep rich volcanic soils nourish what are dry grown grape vines. Elevation is 100m and this section of the vineyard receives the least amount of airflow relative to our other sites. The northerly aspect provides full sunlight and exposure resulting in powerful, rich fruit.

Nose: Pear, lime, peach and melon. Rich drive and intensity.

Palate: Brioche, lime, melon, pear. Weighty mid palate and an acid line that lingers for some time.

Wine Making The fruit is hand harvested into 15kg baskets and transferred to the winery. The fruit is whole cluster crushed into the press and drained off into tank for settling. Primary fermentation takes place in barrique (30% new) over 3 weeks followed by complete malolactic fermentation. Lees stirring occurs twice towards the end of primary fermentation then once more at the completion of malolactic fermentation. 250 cases produced