Summary: Bumblebee encapsulates all that a healthy partnership with the environment can be – a harmony with nature  through  organic, sustainable and vegan friendly practices that allow all to flourish – the vines, the plants and the animals. The Bumblebee wines have been created by Con-Greg Grigoriou and Corey Ryan to be classically and varietally expressive styles that are approachable and well balanced.

 

Vineyards: The moderate, dry climate with very low rainfall during autumn and fertile soils is perfect suited to Organic Viticulture. The well established vines (up to thirty years of age) are planted widely apart for airflow to minimise disease pressure and minimal drip irrigation  ensures low yielding fruit with rich flavours and varietal expressiveness

 

Winemaking: Fruit is harvested during the early morning hours to retain freshness and partially whole bunch pressed. A fast and precise vinification in stainless steel with minimal oxygen contact maximises fruit expression and aromatics. A cool fermentation (15 to 18 degrees) is undertaken in stainless steel tanks before maturation on lees for four months.

 

Vintage 2021: If 2020 was all about the heat, then 2021 will be remembered as the wet season. In many parts of Australia, it was unseasonably wet in winter but not at critical times to do damage nor impact the resultant ripeness of the grapes. A cool and dry summer meant even ripening was achieved between dry and rainy spells and the ensuing fruit quality was excellent and for once yields were up making for a bumper harvest in 2021.

 

Tasting Note: The nose displays fresh and fruit-driven aromas of citrus and nectarine with subtle creamy notes. The palate is likewise fruit-driven and elegant with excellent purity. Stone-fruits and citrus flavours build to a pleasingly round mouthfeel before being carried to a dry finish by clean acidity. A very well balanced and attractive Chardonnay that will be a versatile companion to a wide range of seafood and white meats.