The Cloud Rider is a special wine from our Whitlands vineyard, equal parts organically managed Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. It was fermented on full skins under a small marquee just 5m from the vines themselves, and then pressed directly into a 3 year old Hungarian oak hogshead. It sat on full lees for 6 months, again outside in sight of the vines, through the freezing Whitlands winter. Zero sulphur. Only 140 bottles made - online only.
It's a little orange, a little racy and shows all the elements characteristic of this historic vineyard up in the clouds. Mandarin, lemon curd, coriander seed, and an electrifying crystalline acidity. Love this wine.