Seductive aromas of pear skin, grapefruit, white stone-fruit, citrus blossom and white flowers are complemented by hints of apple, lemon curd, clove spice and toasted almonds. Intense and focussed, the palate shows layer upon layer of pear and white peach, tightly wound by a deliciously creamy texture, and perfectly balanced with nectarine acidity and subtle oak nuances, for a powerful yet elegantly restrained, lingering finish.
Fifth-generation winemaker Stephen Henschke and his wife Prue purchased the Lenswood property in the Adelaide Hills in 1981. At 550 metres above sea level, the Lenswood vineyard offers not only magnificent views over the traditional vine country but also higher rainfall and humidity, cooler temperatures to retain high natural acidity, yet still enough sunshine to fully ripen the grapes. The chardonnay vineyard, which consists of seven clones, has taken its name from Frederick Croft, an orchardist who took up a neighbouring property in 1938.