McHenry Hohnen, Laterite Hills Chardonnay 2023

Laterite Hills Chardonnay, McHenry Hohnen 2023 

Margaret River, Australia

Grape Variety: Chardonnay

Alcohol: 13% ABV

The Story

Biodynamic farming, minimal intervention winemaking, single vineyard wines of Margaret River.

Since its inception McHenry Hohnen has had an unwavering focus on crafting site expressive wines. As the vines age and the soils continue to evolve, the individuality and beauty of the land continually develop in our wines.

The wines of McHenry Hohnen are sourced from the family estate consisting of three vineyards, all located in the southern part of the Margaret River Wine Region: Hazel’s Vineyard and Farm, Calgardup Brook Vineyard and Burnside Vineyard. For decades, founder and owner Murray McHenry has been a leading proponent in pushing the viticultural boundaries of this pristine region. While the portfolio is grounded in Chardonnay and Bordeaux varieties, McHenry Hohnen are also well regarded for less traditional varieties for this region such as Marsanne, Roussanne, Grenache, Mataro and Zinfandel.

McHenry Hohnen see their role as stewards of the land and have implemented organic farming practices for many years to create the optimal conditions for soil health and the quality of the grapes harvested. The winemaking team craft wines that pay homage to the site of origin and use low impact techniques combined with an acute attention to detail to achieve the goal of the finest site specific wines.

Whilst the story of McHenry Hohnen is steeped in the history of the region, we look to the future with anticipation as our soil, vines and wines continue to evolve.

Vineyard & Winemaking

Fruit sought from the Calgardup Brook, Hazel’s, Burnside & Chapman Brook Vineyards.

Farmed with the same philosophy and made in the same way as the single vineyard chardonnays. All fruit was hand-picked and whole bunch pressed, before undergoing wild yeast fermentation with full solids in French oak barriques and puncheons (25% new). Barrels were sulphured shortly after primary fermentation was completed with no malolactic fermentation in 2022. Laterite Hills Chardonnay matured for 10 months
in barrels before being bottled in February 2023.

Tasting Notes:

Flinty and complex, this wine is a charming expression of Southern Margaret River Chardonnay. On the nose, delicate notes of kaffir lime, nectarine pulp, and zesty ginger leap from the glass, complemented by complex wild ferment elements of cashews and flint rock. The palate is powerful yet crystalline and defined by a mealy texture and that long, savoury acid line this area is renowned for. This Chardonnay reflects place and season and pays homage to our farming and winemaking philosophy.

Cellaring & Service

Cellaring Potential: 8 years

Serving Temperature: 12–14°C

Allergens: This wine contains sulphites