Well this wine had me thinking a fair bit, and although it usually hurts, I’m pretty sure it’s generally a good sign in a Chardonnay. Initially I thought it looked slightly volatile and oxidative, but when I re-tasted it the next day it tricked me and went backwards in time, looking noticeably fresher and cleaner. Points are for the second days tasting.

It smells of nectarine, a mix of citrus fruits, mineral, vanilla and pralines. It’s full bodied with big flavours of pear, peach and citrus that fan out through the mouth beautifully but there’s also a more serious flinty minerally element and strong penetrating acidity to balance. Finishes long and minerally with a touch of warmth on exit. It’s quirky but thoroughly engaging - an excellent wine of complexity and character I think.

Rated : 93 Points
Tasted : Jun08
Alcohol : 14%
Closure : Diam
Drink : 2009 - 2012