Handpicked Highbow Hill Vineyard Yarra Valley Chardonnay 2014

This is the pointy end of the Handpicked range, sourced from the Highbrow vineyard (which Handpicked now own). Whole bunch pressed, it was fermented in one third new oak and spends 10 months in barrel.

Bright straw green, the only challenge here is the heavy barrel influence on the nose – it’s hard to escape. Mealy, banana-ester influenced palate is an old school, oak-dominant style, with great length and intensity but lumbered with a slightly heavy, chippy edge. Not a fan of that oak, but quality fruit no doubt.

Drink: 2016-2021. 17.5/20, 91/100.

Details: 13.5%, Screwcap, $59.99, Sample
Would I buy it? A glass would do.
Buy online: Handpicked website