Cullen Kevin John Chardonnay 2023

The 2023 Kevin John stands as a remarkable testament to the ongoing exploration of terroir through biodynamics—a journey without bounds. Bold, powerful, and rich in texture, it embodies the essence of this quest. Harvested meticulously over three weeks in alignment with the biodynamic calendar, it embraces the nuances of fruit and flower days, from the celestial dance of a full Moon to the subtle whispers of a new moon flower day in late February.

Every step of its creation is a testament to craftsmanship and dedication. Hand-harvested and gently pressed in whole bunches, the grapes find their home in a variety of vessels—concrete eggs, amphorae, and biodynamic puncheons. Eight months of patient maturation follow in these puncheons, predominantly new oak, untouched by fining or filtration.

Crafted solely from the dry-farmed, biodynamically certified Wente/Gin Gin clone, planted between 1976 and 1988, each vine yields a mere 1.7 tons per hectare, ensuring concentration and depth of flavor. Promising longevity, it will gracefully evolve over the next two decades under screwcap, housed in a new lightweight bottle designed for the journey ahead.

Vintage 2023 was a low yielding vintage which resulted in some stunning grapes and hence quality wine. In particular Cabernet Sauvignon exhibited the best typicity of varietal manifestation. The 52 year old vines consistently yield well year on year out.

The growing conditions until December were cold and wet and due to the negative Indian dipole and La Niña effects finishing in December 2022 we had an unprecedented dry spell from December until the end of harvest.

Small berry size particularly in white grape varieties produced beautifully balanced wines; Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay, Cabernet and Malbec all outstanding.