About this winery

The von Mandl family began their journey over 40 years ago. The first sign of the real potential of the vineyards came in 1994 with a surprise win at the International Wine & Spirit Competition in London for ‘Top Chardonnay in the World.’ The family has developed exceptional vineyards with distinctive Chardonnay and Merlot clones, some of which are now over 40 years old, at what are now CheckMate Artisanal Winery vineyards.

See the Checkmate Winery detail page for more information on this brand

Product notes

A vineyard of contrasting elevations and row orientations provided an opportunity to create a unique wine.

Production notes

estate: Sunset Vineyard, Black Sage Bench fermentation: 100% wild fermentation clonal selection: Dijon 76, Dijon 95 harvest: Hand-picked crafted: 15 Barrels

Tasting notes

This is an enticing Chardonnay with aromas of sagebrush, floral spice, cold tea and lychee underscored by subtle fruit and lifted oak notes. The palate is vibrant and textural, displaying honey, lime, mineral and sea salt characters, backed by herbs and fruit in the background.