Scotchmans Hill (Australia) Chardonnay 2003
Big, buttery, generously oaked and abundantly fruity Australian Chardonnay is about as ‘out’ as its possibly to be in some wine-loving circles, but I have to say that a nicely chilled bottle of this warmth and sunshine in a glass is still something I love – when it is as well made and well balanced as this example from the Geelong vineyards of Scotchmans Hill. 100% French oak barrel fermented and aged (for one year, in a mix of new and three-year-old barrels) this has a gloriously decadent nose, overflowing with butter, candied yam and pineapple and a creamy background of cashew nut and toast. On the palate it manages a fine balance between that ripe, juicy, unctuously sweet and limpid fruit and taut mineral acidity with some lemony fruit character adding to the sense of poise and freshness. Just a delicious wine of its style. £9.99 Oddbins.
