Leconfield Coonawarra was established in 1974 by noted oenologist, Sydney Hamilton. During a winemaking career spanning nearly 60 years, Sydney was highly regarded for his contribution to the industry. At the age of 76, Sydney Hamilton still yearned to make a classic Australian Cabernet Sauvignon and set himself the task of finding the right district in which to establish his own vineyard and winery and Leconfield Coonawarra was established.
Today Leconfields winemaking direction is driven by highly regarded winemaker, Paul Gordon. Leconfield Cabernet Sauvignon has established itself as one of the most distinctive on the Australian market and has a dedicated following throughout Australia and around the world. The Merlot is meticulously selected so that the small volume released each year is extremely sought after and is regarded as one of the best examples in the district.
Over the last two decades and further reinforced through recent show success, the Riesling vines selected and planted by Sydney Hamilton in 1974 have yielded wines that have become benchmarks of the variety within the Coonawarra region.
Vineyards
Leconfield Coonawarra Sparkling Blanc de Blancs celebrates the elegance and purity of Chardonnay grown in the premium cool climate of South Australias Coonawarra region.
Blanc de Blancs (meaning white from whites) is produced entirely from Leconfield estate-grown Chardonnay vines. This vineyard, in the heart of Coonawarra, backs on to the Penola Racecourse, where Sparkling wine and celebrations go hand in hand! Chardonnay vines are planted in a lower dip of the vineyard, taking full advantage of the cool-climate attributes of both the region and site.
Vinification
Chardonnay grapes were picked early so as to retain high natural acidity and low pH which is paramount in the production of premium Sparkling wine. Following primary fermentation, the base wine underwent complete malolactic fermentation, softening the acid and adding a creamy mouthfeel. Extended maturation on lees (sur lie) introduced a textural savouriness, while the addition of reserve wine, 2022 vintage wild ferment Chardonnay fermented in older Burgundian oak hogshead barrels, was added to provide further matured characters and complexity. Prior to bottling, Sparkling wines typically receive a small dosage or liqueur to balance the acidity of the wine. We have further enhanced the Leconfield Coonawarra Blanc de Blancs, by opting to use some 2021 Leconfield Coonawarra Noble Riesling as our dosage, while administering a light touch (roughly 2% of the blend), so as to deliver an overall drier style. A fine sparkling bead cleanses the palate while enhancing flavour and extending the wine length.
Tasting Notes
Leconfield Coonawarra Sparkling Blanc de Blancs exhibits fresh apple, citrus blossom and stone fruits with lemon curd and savoury brioche notes, while a fine bead cleanses and extends the palate.
This is a top notch fizz for any situation. Fresh like a prosecco but more complex like a cava. Delicious!