The lower lying and east sloping vines of Block 2 (with its deep, schist gravel soil), yield a Chardonnay with an enticing bouquet of white blossom and crushed stones. Respectful winemaking (with a pleasing absence of new oak) allows the subtle fruit characters to interweave with the intriguing saline and mineral notes on the palate. A usual bright acidity furnishes focus and length, and harmoniously integrates the broad mid-palate in this complex and very fine rendition.

Winemaker's note: "Beginning with meticulous site selection and vineyard design started in 1991, Felton Road's story is one of refusal to compromise. A strict 100% estate policy with fully organic and biodynamic viticulture (Demeter certified) ensures that the fruit arrives at the winery as pure as it can be, while our entire estate comes as close to true sustainability as is possible. A commitment to hands off winemaking: gravity flow, wild yeasts, wild malo, an avoidance of fining and filtration all help preserve the wine's expression of its terroir. The result is Chardonnay and Pinot Noir which accurately express the authenticity and complexity of our unique vineyards."

The 'Block' title within the Felton Road range refers to very small, particular 'plots' that generally encompass two or three rows of vines, this attention to soil, aspect and fruit within the vineyard is clear to taste in the purity of the 'Block' wines. Fermentation with indigenous yeast in French Oak (no new oak). 17 months in barrel.

"The 2022 Block 2 Chardonnay was bottled, along with the Block 6 Chardonnay, in September 2023, as opposed to the 2022 Bannockburn Chardonnay which was bottled in May of 2023. The same winemaking (aside from a difference in the time spent in oak) across the cuvées serves to highlight the vineyard differences. This Block 2 is far more aromatically restrained and certainly hides the voluminous fruit behind a sheath of mineral phenolics. The wine is powerful but restrained and pure in its way. It's lovely, with a gentle brine note through the finish. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink to 2035."
94 points.
Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate (December 2023)

"Restrained aromatics; green pear, yellow-skinned apple. Mirabelle plum. Super subtle on first taste, very tight, and walks the edge of seeming a little too lean? But with time in the glass the palate opens out to reveal a core of ripe stone-fruit. There is good length so just needs a little more time to express itself fully."
95 points.
Jane Skilton MW, Inside Burgundy (December 2023)

"Yellow apple, apricot and acacia followed by baking spices, marzipan and stony minerality with a touch of cheese rind. Medium-bodied with a good backbone of acidity which balances out the wine well. Beautiful harmony and drinkability. Mendoza clone (Wente) on own roots. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink or hold."
96 points.
James Suckling, jamessuckling.com (October 2023)