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2011 Kevin John Magnum

When this wine was first tasted after it had been in bottle for a while, it was immediately evident that this Chardonnay is destined for a future that will place it in the upper echelon of the Kevin John Chardonnays produced thus far.

The dry and warm spring in 2010 and consistently hot summer conditions in 2011, has led to the production of white wines of exceptional flavour and elegance. It is also no coincidence that the 2011 vintage was one of super moons! (Two full moons on one month)

The Chardonnay grapes were hand harvested over a range of sugar levels on fruit and flower days when they had reached physiological ripeness. The use of basket pressing, which has the great benefit of treating the fruit gently, played an important role in contributing to the elegance and complexity of this outstanding Chardonnay. The basket press gives only 40% juice yield and therefore better quality wines.

Vintage Notes

2011 Vintage Report

The very dry and warm Spring (only 111mm of rain from September 2010 onwards) combined with the consistently hot Summer led to the fruit of all grape varieties ripening within a relatively short period of time, and thus to harvest extending only from 1 February to 9 March. This was the earliest finish to vintage on record. It was also a vintage of super moons! The vintage conditions in 2011 are resulting in the production of white wines that have great flavour and elegance and to red wines with marvellously concentrated fruit flavours.

Previous Releases

  • 2016 Kevin John Magnum

    Another great season for our vineyards and our 1976 Chardonnay vines produced some incredible fruit.

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    View Tasting Notes
  • 2017 Kevin John

    This is a wine defined by great purity, elegance and a fantastic acid backbone: a vintage destined for great ageing potential.

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    View Tasting Notes