# Real Time Chardonnay (2022)

- **Producer:** First Drop Wines
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** South Australia, Australia
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.8%
- **Average price:** €23
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, apple, vanilla, butter, cream, cloves

## About this wine

The Real Time Chardonnay 2022 from First Drop Wines is a single-varietal expression from the Adelaide Hills region of South Australia. It originates from the Gumeracha vineyard, situated at an elevation of 350 meters, with soils composed of sand, clay, shale, and limestone. First Drop Wines, established in 2004, is a family-driven winery focused on producing enjoyable wines through a blend of innovation and respect for tradition. The 'Real Time' Chardonnay is characterized by its restrained and refined style, aiming to highlight the vineyard's unique attributes and the purity of the Chardonnay grape.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyard sits at 350m elevation.
- Uses 20% new French oak puncheons.
- 40% of the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation.
- Ranked #41 of 90 2022 Chardonnays from Adelaide Hills by The Real Review.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and bright acidity are well-suited to cut through the richness of creamy sauces and complement the delicate flavors of seafood and poultry. The subtle oak influence can harmonize with roasted notes and herbs.

## Wine making process

The Real Time Chardonnay 2022 begins with hand-picked grapes from the Gumeracha vineyard. The fruit undergoes whole-bunch pressing before fermentation in French oak puncheons, with 20% of these being new. A portion of the wine, 40%, is allowed to undergo malolactic fermentation. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for nine months on its lees in the same French oak puncheons, contributing to its texture and complexity.