Tulloch Wines Chardonnay EM Limited Release 2023
The Hunter Valley, with its rich winemaking heritage, continues to produce wines that not only reflect the region’s unique terroir but also honour the legacy of the families who have shaped its history. The Tulloch Wines Chardonnay EM Limited Release 2023 is a shining example of this, paying tribute to the late Eileen Mary Tulloch, a key figure in the rise of the Tulloch label to prominence in the 1950s.
A Legacy of Hospitality and Excellence
Eileen Mary Tulloch, who married Hector Tulloch in 1941, was more than just a partner in life; she was a partner in building the Tulloch brand into a name synonymous with quality and hospitality. Eileen’s graciousness and warm hospitality left an indelible mark on the Hunter Valley wine community, and the EM Chardonnay is a fitting tribute to her legacy. This limited release wine not only celebrates Eileen’s contribution to the Tulloch name but also embodies the dedication to excellence that the family has maintained for generations.
The Vineyard: A Foundation of Quality
The 2023 EM Chardonnay is crafted from fruit grown on a 30+ year old vineyard situated on the gently sloping red loam hillsides of Denman in the Upper Hunter Valley. These mature vines, nurtured over decades, produce fruit of exceptional quality, which is the cornerstone of this limited release wine. The combination of the vineyard’s age and the unique terroir of the Upper Hunter Valley imparts a richness and depth of flavour that is unmistakable.
Tasting Notes: A Full-Bodied Expression of Hunter Valley Chardonnay
The Tulloch Wines Chardonnay EM Limited Release 2023 is a traditional full-bodied style of Chardonnay, offering a complex and satisfying tasting experience. In the glass, it presents a beautiful golden straw colour, hinting at the richness and maturity of the wine.
On the nose, the wine is inviting, with ripe peach and melon aromas that immediately draw you in. These fruit notes are the prelude to a palate that is layered with flavours of ripe stone fruits, perfectly balanced by creamy French oak. The oak influence is present but not overpowering, allowing the fruit to shine while adding depth and complexity. A fine acid line runs through the wine, providing balance and ensuring a lingering, refreshing finish.
This Chardonnay is both rich and refined, offering a seamless integration of fruit, oak, and acidity. It’s a wine that can be enjoyed now, showcasing its vibrant fruit and creamy texture, but it also has the structure to age gracefully for the next 1 to 5+ years, allowing the flavours to develop further complexity.
A Wine for Special Occasions
As a limited release, the EM Chardonnay is made only in exceptional vintages, when the quality of the fruit meets the highest expectations of the winemaking team. This makes it a special wine, ideal for celebrating moments that matter. Whether paired with a roast chicken dinner, complete with all the trimmings, or enjoyed on its own, this Chardonnay is a wine that enhances any occasion.
Conclusion: A Tribute in a Glass
The Tulloch Wines Chardonnay EM Limited Release 2023 is more than just a wine; it’s a tribute to a woman who played a pivotal role in the history of the Tulloch family and the Hunter Valley wine industry. It’s a wine that informs, educates, and entertains, offering a taste of the past while celebrating the present.
For those who appreciate the nuances of a well-crafted Chardonnay, and who value the stories behind the wines they enjoy, the EM Chardonnay is a must-have addition to your collection. It’s a wine that honours tradition while delivering a modern, elegant expression of Hunter Valley Chardonnay.
