Rochford Dans Les Bois Yarra Valley Chardonnay 2021 - 6 Bottles

Winery Background

Rochford Wines, established in 2002 by Helmut Konecsny, is a family-owned winery located in the Coldstream sub-region of the Yarra Valley, Victoria. Known for producing premium cool-climate wines, the winery combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern practices to craft elegant and expressive varietals. Rochford Wines manages several vineyards in the Yarra Valley, each selected for its soil, aspect, and microclimate, contributing to the distinctive character of their wines. The estate is celebrated for both its award-winning wines and its cellar door experience, which includes tastings, dining, and events.

Vineyards and Vintage Conditions

The Chardonnay grapes for the Dans Les Bois 2021 were sourced from Rochford’s carefully managed vineyards, including the Briarty 9 and Isabella’s Vineyard sites. The vintage experienced cool, consistent temperatures and balanced rainfall, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly, retain natural acidity, and develop complex flavour profiles. The soils of these vineyards, rich in silty clay loams and well-drained subsoils, impart bright minerality and depth to the wine.

Winemaking

The grapes were hand-harvested and gently pressed to preserve delicate aromatics. Fermentation occurred in French oak barrels, 30% new, with regular lees stirring to add texture and complexity. The wine was matured for 10 months in barrel before bottling, creating a Chardonnay that balances elegance, structure, and freshness.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Pale straw with golden highlights
Aroma: Citrus blossom, white peach, and subtle hints of vanilla and flint
Palate: Medium-bodied and elegant, offering flavours of stone fruit, nectarine, and lemon curd, with well-integrated oak and refreshing acidity
Finish: Smooth and lingering, with a delicate, mineral-driven finish

Food Pairing

Ideal with light seafood dishes, creamy pasta, roasted chicken, or fresh garden salads. Also excellent as a refined aperitif.