The distinguished Laira property was established by Captain Stentiford in 1893 on a premium parcel of choice Coonawarra
Terra rossa soil. Pioneer and patron of the Coonawarra, Eric Brand became custodian of the vineyard more than half a century later. Today, Brand's Laira are widely regarded as some of the region's best plantings, producing wines of exceptional quality as evidenced by their consistent wine show success. The distinctive small berries of the vineyard lead to below average yields, translating into wines with intense flavours.
Laira is one of the nation's most enduring vineyards, established at a time when Coonawarra was a communal agricultural district called Penola Fruit Colony. Parcels of Chardonnay are harvested throughout the cool of early morning and immediately pressed, only the purest free runs are retained. After a spell of cold settling, juices are racked to fermenters and inoculated for a primary course of vinification. After a partial ferment, batches are transferred to a selection of seasoned and new French oak barrels for completion. Components remain on yeast lees for nine months maturation, followed by assemblage of the best barrels into the final wine, fining and filtration before bottling.
TASTING NOTESPale straw gold hues. Vibrant nose of classic peach melon and nectarine fruit supported by creamy cashew nut oak. Ripe, rich pure stone fruit palate, melon characters are accompanied by creamy nutty oak, balanced with refreshing acidity. A long fine finish of lingering fruit flavours. The Chardonnay of choice to mate with fine gourmandise, blackened flounder or walnut and tarragon crusted trout.