Oakridge Chardonnay 2009 (Yarra Valley, Vic)
13%, Screwcap, $72
Source: Sample
www.oakridgewines.com.au

This picked up ‘Best Chardonnay’ in the SMH/Age Good Wine Guide released this week. I think I’ve already tried it (at the Tri Nations Wine Challenge) but it was certainly a pleasure to revisit it. Simply put, this is a superb Chardonnay that I’d happily call one of Australia’s best. Loved it.

Bright green/straw in the glass. Super fine, mealy oak nuanced nose that shows some of the best oak handling around. It’s just beautiful, mealy, almond meal oak that is clearly a part of the wine, but in a tightly wound,  if seamless fashion. Beyond the oak it’s all fine and lean white peach and citrus fruit in a full though not overt form. Perfect really. Lovely nose this.

The palate doesn’t disappoint either, with white peach, marzipan and lemon flavours that are really surprisingly intense given the modest alcohol. Just before it threatens to become large and full, the acidity snaps everything back into shape again in a delightful form. Supremely stylish and plain delicious stuff. Top class. I’ll buy some. 18.8/95