Fraser Gallop Estate Parterre Chardonnay 2021

Region and Vineyards

Located in the premium wine-producing area of Margaret River in Western Australia, Fraser Gallop Estate benefits from a maritime climate that provides a long, even growing season, ideal for cultivating Chardonnay. The region is known for its gravelly soils and consistent coastal breezes, contributing to the distinctive minerality and freshness of its wines.

The estate's vineyards are planted with the Gingin clone of Chardonnay, noted for its low yields and intense flavor concentration.

Winemaking

This vintage was hand-harvested and the fruit was chilled to 8°C overnight before being gently whole bunch pressed. This process ensures minimal phenolic extraction, preserving the purity and finesse of the juice. The must was settled for 24 hours in a stainless-steel tank before being transferred to French oak barriques and 500L puncheons, one-third of which were new. Fermentation was carried out by indigenous yeasts at temperatures kept below 20°C to retain primary fruit characteristics. Post-fermentation, the wine was stirred weekly for a month to enhance its creamy texture.

The Chardonnay was aged for nine months in barrel before blending and bottling.

Did you know?

Fraser Gallop Estate was founded in 1999 and has quickly established itself as one of Margaret River’s leading producers, winning numerous awards and accolades for its wines, particularly its Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Tasting Notes:

• Color: Pale straw with lime green hues.
• Aroma: A complex bouquet of citrus, cumquat, pineapple, citrus blossom, and white peach.
• Palate: Lively acidity complemented by a flinty river pebble dryness. Flavors of lime and lemon juice are highlighted with an almond glossiness and a subtle hint of lactose. The acidity and pH balance suggest excellent aging potential, with the wine expected to develop further complexity over the next 7-9 years.

Wine Pairing Ideas

This vibrant Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Try it with a creamy lobster bisque to complement its acidity and texture, or pair it with grilled chicken topped with a citrus-herb butter to enhance its citrus notes. For a vegetarian option, a mushroom risotto with a sprinkle of Parmesan would balance its almond and creamy undertones perfectly.

History of Fraser Gallop Estate

Fraser Gallop Estate was founded by Nigel Gallop in 1999. Driven by a passion for wine and a desire to create world-class wines, Gallop chose the Wilyabrup sub-region of Margaret River for its exceptional grape-growing conditions. The estate spans 165 acres, with 50 acres under vine, dedicated to the classic Bordeaux and Burgundy varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot.

The winemaking team, led by Chief Winemaker Clive Otto, brings a wealth of experience and a meticulous approach to both viticulture and vinification. Otto, who joined the estate in 2006, has been instrumental in shaping the style and quality of Fraser Gallop’s wines, focusing on minimal intervention and expressing the purity of the fruit and the distinct characteristics of the terroir.

Region and Vineyards

Fraser Gallop Estate is situated in the Wilyabrup sub-region of Margaret River, Western Australia, an area celebrated for its ideal climate and soils for viticulture. The estate's vineyards benefit from a maritime climate, characterized by warm summers, cool evenings, and a significant diurnal temperature range, which helps to preserve acidity and enhance flavor development in the grapes.

The soils in Wilyabrup are predominantly gravelly loams over clay subsoils, providing excellent drainage and a moderate level of fertility, ideal for producing high-quality wine grapes. The vineyards are meticulously managed with sustainable practices, focusing on vine health and fruit quality.

Wine Range

Fraser Gallop Estate produces a range of wines that showcase the best of the Margaret River region.

Their flagship wines include the Parterre range, featuring Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, and Merlot. These wines are crafted to express the elegance, balance, and complexity that the region is known for.

In addition to the Parterre range, Fraser Gallop Estate also produces a limited-release series, including the Palladian Cabernet Sauvignon and Palladian Chardonnay, which represent the pinnacle of their winemaking efforts, made only in exceptional vintages.

Did you know

Fraser Gallop Estate has consistently received high praise from wine critics and has won numerous awards. One of their notable achievements includes winning the prestigious Decanter World Wine Awards Trophy for Best Bordeaux Blend in 2010, highlighting their commitment to excellence and their ability to compete on the world stage.