OK, let's get this out of the way: this is mighty fine Chardonnay - a Fine Dry White! If you want to read on, please do so.
This wine is classy, it is elegant. I sat up straight in its presence. It's that kind of wine. That said, apparently previous vintages (this is its third) are even better, 2008 was a tough year in them Hills. I'm not sure how better is possible.
It shows clear aromas from barrel fermentation - a technique with a resultant hazelnutty, nougat sense to it. There's a touch of honeysuckle, some stonefruit - white peach - and delicate citrus. Added interest comes in the form of good textural feel from the regular - every 2 weeks or so from the completion of ferment - bâtonage over 9 months. Mealy almond completes the picture, carrying a good nutty finish, delivering some length accentuated by some minerally acid.
Yalumba doesn't divulge how much of this is made, but i'd hazard it's around 450-500 cases, given it comes from about 20 barriques. Seriously, this is impressive - it's this style of Chardonnay that is at the vanguard of the varieties renaissance within Australia. Winemaker Teresa Heuzenroeder's name is not one I was previously familiar with - one to keep an eye out for.
Source: Gift, The Wine Punter
Price: $29.95
Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Website: www.yalumba.com
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