The Handpicked wines are always released with a bit more age on them, and for styles like this Handpicked Collection Yarra Valley Chardonnay 2019 it really helps give an extra layer or two. The grapes here come from Gladysdale (which has to be the most English-countryside-esque town name around) & Yarra Glen fruit. It’s plump, expressive and just taut enough to be refreshing, with nut cream and layers of toast over what is otherwise a pretty trim palate. Lots of flavour and Yarra Chardonnay enjoyment. Maybe a little warm to finish but never intrusive. Just a nice, properly flavoursome Chardonnay Chardonnay, if you get my drift.

THE VERDICT

• Best drinking: nowish, no hurry.
• Score (out of 20): 18
• Score (out of 100): 93
• Alcohol %: 13.2
• RRP (in $AUD): 49.99
• Winery website: https://handpickedwines.com.au/
• Would I buy it?: worth a few glasses