Willow Bridge Dragonfly Chardonnay 2012 (Geographe, WA)
13%, Screwcap, $17
Source: Sample
www.willowbridge.com.au

The devil, as they say, is in the detail. Here the detail comes in the form of a little less conversation and a little more (winemaking) action, with half the wine fermented naturally in   ‘pre-loved’ (according to the back label. What a great term. ‘Used oak’ or ‘older oak’ is deadly boring. Pre-loved is sexy) French oak, the other half fermented in tank.

A light green/just yellow colour, this carefully balances  grapefruit fruit characters with the barest hint of nutty oak. Has a light, fresh and clean palate that is quite soft compared to the SSB but does not lack for flavour depth.

This is simple WA Chardonnay yet is still quite long and well made. Easy recommendation for a light white.

Drink: 2013-2014
Score: 16.8/20 89/100
Would I buy it? No, but I’d recommend it.