# The Roman Road Chardonnay (2021)

- **Producer:** Simpsons Wine Estate
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** England, United Kingdom
- **Style:** Classic
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, lemon, lime, apple, pear, butterscotch, butter, vanilla, smoke, charred wood, toasted bread

## About this wine

Simpsons The Roman Road Chardonnay 2021 is a still white wine from Simpsons Wine Estate in Kent, England. The estate was founded in 2012 by Ruth and Charles Simpson, who aim to produce wines reflecting their provenance and integrity. The vineyards are situated on chalky soils in the North Downs, a geological formation shared with Champagne and Burgundy. The 2021 vintage faced a cool, wet summer, necessitating specific vineyard management. The wine is a testament to the expression of English terroir through careful winemaking.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyards planted on the same chalk ridge as Champagne.
- Uses an Inertys press with a nitrogen lung to protect juice.
- Owners have a French winemaking heritage since 2002.
- Estate established in 2012, first harvest in 2016.

## Food pairing

The wine's acidity and mineral notes cut through rich sauces and complement the natural sweetness of shellfish. Its body and subtle oak influence can stand up to roasted poultry and richer fish dishes.

## Wine making process

Simpsons The Roman Road Chardonnay 2021 is produced using 100% Chardonnay grapes. The winemaking process begins with whole-bunch pressing, with the juice directed immediately into oak barrels for fermentation. The estate utilizes an Inertys press with a nitrogen lung to protect the juice from oxidation. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes an aging period of 8 months, with 30% of the barrels being new French oak. The estate's approach emphasizes minimal intervention to showcase the vineyard's character.