Soumah d'Soumah Chardonnay

Soumah is one of those hidden gem wineries within Australia. Located down a country lane, in the dress circle of the cool Warramate foothills of Gruyere, Soumah set out to make wine with the charm of northern Italy but the provenance of the Yarra Valley. Whilst they grow Italian varieties such as Barbera and Nebbiolo, making wines like a frizzante from the Brachetto grape, they also produce more classic styles.

Situated an average of 120 metres above sea level, the vineyard is elevated above the valley floor, and the ancient sandy-clay loams with broken sandstone shape the small yields and define the detail in these precise, focussed expressions of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Grapes are harvested as early as possible to ensure a fresh line of citrus fruit and crisp acidity on the palate. Barrel fermentation has developed structure, and with eight months ageing before bottling, the result is a wine with balanced weight and a silky texture.

This Chardonnay has a classic stone fruit nose, accented with toasted hazelnuts, cold butter and a whisp of struck match. The nuttiness continues on the palate, with clementine citrus, basil and a refreshing creme-fraiche acidity.