Pyramid Valley, Lion's Tooth Chardonnay, North Canterbury 2020
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Lion's Tooth Chardonnay, Botanicals Collection 2020
Pyramid Valley, North Canterbury, New Zealand
Grape Variety: Chardonnay
Alcohol: 14% ABV
The Story
The pinnacle of the achievements at Pyramid Valley. Each wine is named after the common colloquial name of the meadow plant dominant in its respective vineyard block and since their release in 2006 have created a new dimension for fine New Zealand wine, illustrating the incredible impact of this remarkable vineyard on the sense of wine. They are wines that truly breathe of their place.
Vineyard & Winemaking
Planted from 2000-2002 at 11,111 vines/ha and a second planting in 2018, farmed biodynamically from inception. Steeply inclined, east facing home block. Beautiful soils, with nut and crumb structure and great mineral fertility: 30% clay, 15% active lime.
Crushed and soaked for 2 hours prior to pressing. Wild ferment, in aged French oak barrels. 12 months on lees in barrel, then aged on light lees for 5 months in stainless steel prior to bottling unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Notes:
Pale lemon-straw in the glass, this wine opens with a layered and mineral-driven nose of mandarin, roasted cashew, and crushed limestone.
The palate is taut and precise, revealing unfolding notes of lemon curd, mandarin peel, and savoury, nutty undertones. A distinctive saline acidity brings both tension and clarity, driving the wine through a long, focused finish. This block consistently delivers impressive breadth and texture, balanced by a fine mineral thread and elegant restraint.
Cellaring & Service
Drink: 2023-2034
Serving Temperature: 12–14°C
Allergens: This wine contains sulphites