Simpson’s “Roman Road” Chardonnay

Simpsons Wine Estate is situated in the Elham Valley; an unspoilt seam in the North Downs of Kent where the contours of the land, the climate and the soil are excellent for viticulture. The intensely lime-rich chalk soil forms part of the same chalk ridge that stretches from southern England through the Champagne region and on to Burgundy. The Roman Road and Railway Hill vineyards are planted with Burgundian clones 96 and 548, at a density of 4,200 vines per hectare on either Fercal or 41B rootstocks. The Guyot trained vines flourish on sloping, south facing vineyards, which ensure heat accumulation during the day and cold air drainage at night. The vineyard is less than eight miles from the coast providing a crucial maritime influence insulating the fruit against intense temperature variations. Pruning and harvesting takes place by hand and they are signed up to the WineGB’s Sustainability Scheme.

Fermentation took place in two 600 litre French oak barrels to add complexity alongside stainless steel tanks, with selected and indigenous yeasts. Full malolactic conversion resulted in a creamy texture. 25% of the blend was matured in new French oak and 25% in older French barrels, with bâtonnage taking place in some barrels, the frequency and duration was tailored to each. The remaining 50% was aged in stainless steel tanks on lees to retain the purity of fruit.

100% Chardonnay

ABV: 13%