The 2011 Queen of the Earth Chardonnay leads with toffee apple and honeycomb, brine and crushed nuts. In the mouth, the fruit swells with coffee grounds, toasted cashew, almond meal, preserved citrus and jasmine tea. It is significant in size and stature, and the impact of it on the mouth is also a big deal. It is evolving, complex and flowing. There are notes of lichen, sun-dried kelp and coastal spray, granite rocks on the shore during a summer storm. This has developed into a graceful wine that is moving through the years at pace but without rushing. The acid keeps it tethered to the tracks. It has a lovely texture—chalky. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

“The first crop from the 0.5ha planting in ‘04, hand-picked, whole bunch-pressed; fermentation and mlf in French oak (50% new); 17 months in barrel with occasional stirring; once bottled it is held for 36 months before release. The mouthfeel is exceptional, almost succulent, and yet full of activity as the oak and mineral components also find the taste receptors; the length of the palate is awesome. 75 dozen made..”