This is not your typical Aussie fruit bomb. Despite the rather jovial label art, this Chardonnay presents as a serious wine with structure and acidity balanced with use of fine oak.
A pale yellow color is accentuates the bright and shiny appearance.
On the nose this Chardonnay presents white peach, apple, apricot, lemon, grapefruit, with vanilla and coconut notes from New French Oak. There are secondary melon and tropical fruit accents.
The palate presents a serious, complex Chardonnay. In a blind tasting, one might be hard pressed to whether this came from Australia or California. The cool climate aspects of the Central Ranges come through and add a refreshing crisp acidity to balance out the fruit flavors. Citrus, stone fruit and some tropical fruit notes are accented by the vanilla from New French Oak used in fermentation and maturation.
Overall, a great wine for the money- serious structure, restrained fruit, shows finesse in the winemaker’s skills. Serve well chilled with seafood, chicken, light pork and veal dishes especially with cream sauces. Great with a Grilled Salmon Caesar Salad, paella, seafood curry, pasta carbonara or linguine with white clam sauce. 89 points- might be a 90+ with the right food!
