2023 ChaLou Pinot Noir
Region: Orange, New South Wales, Australia
Grape: Pinot Noir
Vineyard Practice: Sustainable, Vegan
Culinary Suggestions: Charcuterie, Roast Duck, Soft Cheeses, Pepperoni Pizza
Alcohol: 13%
Bottle Size: 750ml
Origins
Located just 15minutes east of Orange the vineyard sits at ~900m above sea level. The rock underlying the vineyard is referred to by geologists as the Oakdale formation which is Ordovician material approximately 460million years old. It contains basic volcanic material; sandstone, siltstone breccia and conglomerate derived from basalt and andesite.
Vines were first planted in 2006 with a later planting above the cellar door in 2009. Varieties include Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Shiraz, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc and Arneis.
New Plantings; In December 2022 Nadja and Steve pulled out 6 rows of Pinot Gris and 8 rows of Viognier leaving enough of each variety in the ground for future endeavours. They are extremely excited to have replaced these pulled out vines with 7 rows of Chardonnay and 7 rows of Chenin Blanc. This will be the Orange Regions first planting of Chenin Blanc and perhaps the countries highest.
Nadja and Steve first met when they were studying winemaking at CSU in 2008, before going their separate ways to work and travel overseas. In 2014 the pair reunited in Orange and have been winemaking in the region ever since. In July 2020 they purchased their plot and have been busy tending the vines and making their wines ever since. 2021 was their first harvest and they are eager to show you what they have been doing. With a combined winemaking experience of over 25 years they are certain to have some exciting things to share.
Nadja and Steve both grew up on properties and are self professed “Farm Kids” they love living on the land and the lifestyle they are able to have. Whilst growing vines and making wines is their passion and livelihood this is only one small part of the the 65ha property.
The farm is home to a small flock of sheep, the horses Freddy and Jet as well as the chooks. Animals are a big part of the farm, they help us keep the grass in check, keep us entertained and provide us with food. There is an impressive orchard as well as a market garden which provide an abundance of fruits and vegetables in the spring and summer months. Nadja is a keen cook and so what isn’t eaten fresh is preserved for use over the cooler months.
Leaving the land better than how they found it is a constant goal for Nadja and Steve. Planting trees and ensuring there are places of biodiversity and natural habitat are important when developing new projects.