2022 Sorrenberg Chardonnay, Beechworth, VIC
$70.00
9 out of 10 CORKSCREWS
The Wined Up Review – We understand why this is a ‘cult wine’
After finally tasting the Sorrenberg Chardonnay, I now understand why it’s so special. On the nose, it offers a blend of honey and dew with a savory, umami note reminiscent of MSG, likely from the yeastiness imparted by the lees. The finish is rounded, bready, and yeasty, complemented by bright melon and citrus flavors. The wine is impressively balanced, with nothing overpowering the palate. It’s both powerful and restrained, elegant yet complex.
We rated it a solid 9 out of 10 for its depth, balance, and special character. It will be interesting to see how it develops with age, adding even more complexity. Unlike other cool climate Chardonnays, this one has a driving power, possibly influenced by the granite soil, giving it a distinctive melon and citrus profile. Mark Walpole from Fighting Gully Road mentioned that granite-based wines require minimal intervention as they naturally possess a perfumed quality. This wine’s minimal intervention approach, extended lees contact, and full malolactic fermentation contribute to its creamy and slightly funky character. I’m already craving more and regretting not visiting Sorrenberg sooner.
Sorrenberg Chardonnay A ‘cult wine’!
The 2022 Sorrenberg Chardonnay, a wine that’s generating a lot of buzz in the Australian wine scene. Known for being one of the best in the country, it’s even been likened to a cult wine, alongside renowned names like Giaconda and Savaterre. In a recent conversation, Merrick Watts humorously mentioned that he would bathe in this wine—it’s that exceptional!
When visiting Sorrenberg, you’ll meet Jan and Barry Morey, the husband-and-wife team behind this unpretentious and inviting winery. The cellar is reminiscent of a cozy, underground space with just a few barrels and a simple tasting area. Tasting their wines feels like being at your parents’ place, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The label of Sorrenberg Chardonnay reflects its German heritage, hailing from the Mosel region. They also produce a special Gewürztraminer that we couldn’t get this time but hope to try in the next vintage.
How is it made?
The Sorrenberg Chardonnay is crafted with meticulous care. It undergoes 100% barrel fermentation in French oak, with 25-30% of the barrels being new. Natural yeast fermentation is used, and the wine goes through full malolactic fermentation, which converts tart malic acids to softer lactic acids, enhancing its creaminess. The wine has extended contact with the lees for 10 months, with weekly stirring, followed by an additional 8 months of barrel maturation. Minimal handling and filtration ensure maximum flavor retention, contributing to the wine’s yeastiness and layers of complexity.
| Varietal | Chardonnay |
|---|---|
| Region | Beechworth |
| Country | Australia |
| Corkscrew Rating | 9 out of 10 |