Thistledown, The Great Escape Chardonnay, McLaren Vale, South Australia, Australia, 2024

Producer Profile

Thistledown was founded by Master of Wine, Giles Cooke who had a vision for a more elegant, textural interpretation of Australian wine.

Initial explorations resulted in access to many of the best vineyards, many of which were the previously unloved Old Vine Grenache. Incredible, historic fruit sources coupled with Giles’ increasingly adept efforts has quickly resulted in a reputation for being amongst the best in the country. Narrating the stories of these wines to an increasingly attentive global audience is Giles’ heartfelt commitment and mission.

Viticulture

The Great Escape is Thistledown's benchmark, cooler climate Chardonnay produced from fruit grown in elevated vineyard sites which allow for a long ripening period which helps to maintain the natural sugar and acid balance of the grape. With moderate alcohol, focussed, crisp citrus fruit and a mouth-watering finish, this is an accomplished, truly modern style of this noble variety. Dry grown, old bush vines, grown on red-brown sandy loams with quartz and ironstone. Low intervention viticulture with minimal spray regime, cover crops and promotion of biodiversity.

Winemaking

Fruit went directly to press after picking. The free run juice was run off to tank to settle. We retain a relatively high level of solids in the ferment, all of which is wild fermented in used French oak or concrete egg. We do not encourage malolactic as they want to preserve the crisp, citrus fruit profile.

Tasting Note

Citrussy, subtle oak influence and a bright yet creamy palate. With moderate alcohol, focussed, crisp citrus fruit and a mouth-watering finish, this is an accomplished, truly modern style of this noble variety.

Food Matching

Shellfish, oysters and aromatic Asian dishes.