Kayra – Vintage Chardonnay, Aegean – 2020

Description

PRODCUER NOTE:
Kayra produces premium wines from the Anatolia region -considered to be the birthplace of wine- and is at the cutting edge of winemaking. The wines are made from unique local varieties as well as international ones. These ancient indigenous varieties are being vinified using modern techniques and are producing award-winning results. The vines are planted in the best sites; and the vineyards and wineries have been significantly invested in. The Elaziğ winery, located in Eastern Anatolia, was established in 1942 and is dedicated entirely to the production of red wines. The Şarköy Winery in Thrace was built in 1996 and embraces a cellar for 1,200 barrels, reserved for the ageing of special cuvées. Under the guidance of consultant winemaker Daniel O’Donnell, it is Kayra’s aim to reveal the true potential of Turkey and to bring their rich history and generous spirit to lovers of fine wine.

VINEYARD:
The Chardonnay fruit is grown on the cool, high planes of Denizli and Güney, in the eastern region of Aegean. The vines are grown at 900 metres above sea level and at this altitude the wide diurnal temperature swings prolong the ripening period; the warm days encourage good concentration of fruit flavour in the grapes, while the cool nights impart a balancing natural acidity and citrus notes to the wine. The vines are trained according to a Vertical Shoot Positioning system (VSP). The soils are limestone over clay, which produces elegant wines, with the clay component offering good water retention properties. The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal maturity.

WINEMAKING:
The berries from two of Turkey’s more prominent wine regions were whole cluster pressed. Only the free run juice and the juice of the first press were vinified. 50% was fermented in stainless steel tank and 50% in barrel, where 100% underwent malolactic conversion. The wine was then matured in barrel, of which 20% was new French oak and the remainder was neutral oak; for a period of 16 months. The blending of the two different vineyards and the two different fermentation styles has resulted in a wine of youthfulness and complexity.

TASTING NOTE:
An elegant, barrel-fermented Chardonnay, showing enticing aromas of tropical fruits enveloped by toasty, smoky notes. The creamy, full-bodied palate is harmoniously balanced with a lively acidity through to a long, buttery finish.

GRAPE:
Chardonnay 100%.

COUNTRY:
Turkey

REGION:
Aegean

SUB-REGION:
Denizli