Twenty Twenty One Guinevere Chardonnay

Budburst began on 20th April with a record number of cold nights throughout the frost period. Gusbourne luckily escaped the worst of these temperatures, but this was a sign of a turbulent season to come. Flowering started on the 24th June, 10-15 days later than usual, indicating a later start to harvest than they had been used to for some years. Higher levels of rainfall put pressure on the vineyard eams but also allowed good nutrient cycling from the soil to the vines, resulting in a very good quality canopy and wood for the coming pruning season. September and early October brought some much-needed sunshine and warmth, allowing the grapes to ripen for a successful harvest that started in early October and finished in the first days of November. 

Boot Hill Vineyard. A south-facing ancient escarpment in Appledore, Kent. On clay and sandy loam soils, with a warm and dry microclimate, with moderating coastal breezes due to the close proximity of the English Channel. From clones 548 and 95. 100% whole bunch pressed and fermented at cellar temperature in barriques. Ten months aged in French oak, of which 20% was new. 

Pale golden colour with a nose brimming with honeyed citrus, orchard fruits and toasted nuts. On the palate, the wine is elegant with a silky texture and flavours of lemon zest, green apple and pineapple. As the wine develops in the glass, there are notes of orange blossom, sweet spices and buttered toast, leading to a striking minerality on the finish.