While many people may be aware that the cool climate of the Adelaide Hills makes it more suitable for pinot noir and chardonnay than the Clare Valley, Grosset’s fascination with certain sites within the region is far less appreciated.
Back in the 1990s Grosset pinpointed one site that he thought showed potential to produce distinctive, exceptional quality chardonnay. Following trials between 1990 and 1992, he settled on a plot in Piccadilly Valley as the source of a new wine, Piccadilly Chardonnay. The decision flew counter to the view held by some experts at the time that chardonnay planted on sandstone was not an ideal combination. The distinctive nuances of honeydew melon and grapefruit that characterises this wine may well be due, in part, to the vineyard’s rare rock profile, or perhaps a reflection of the unique soil and weather combination that this site offers. Either way, Grosset has crafted a wine that makes the most of this unique site, and the 2012 Grosset Piccadilly Chardonnay shows its qualities beautifully.
This is a perfectly integrated chardonnay with voluminous white flower aromatics, vibrant and alive on the palate with white peach, honeydew melon and a hint of grapefruit. It is seamless, multi-layered, tight and fine, showing refreshing primal characters which balance lively, zingy natural acidity that provides definition and a crisp lingering finish.
Adelaide Hills – Only 400 dozen produced
Date of Release: 1 March 2014
James Halliday ‘Australian Wine Companion’ 2015
Richness, focus, X-factor, length. Comes alive from the moment you pour it. Dazzling array of flavours; grapefruit, cashew, flint, wood smoke, chalk and white peach among them. Strikes with flavour, holds the volume, then sizzles through what is an immensely persistent finish. 13.5%. Drink to 2022. 97 points
Tyson Stelzer ‘Australia’s Wine Business Magazine’ April 2014
A delightfully elegant release for Grosset, a Chardonnay of graceful perfume and impeccable poise, with a silk thread of acidity lacing a long finish in seamless harmony. Breathtakingly beautiful. 96 points
