Snake Creek (Australia) Chardonnay/Semillon 2003
Another very nice sub 4 bottle suggests my pessimistic view that this is a dying breed is maybe a bit premature. From South East Australia, Oddbins budget brand turns in very quaffable wines, and the Chardonnay/Semillon is one of the best. These two account for about 90% of the blend, in almost equal proportions, along with around 10% Colombard. The latter is key on the nose however, as the wine has an edge of real gooseberry and nettle pungency, before quite a vivid core of waxy lemon and gently toasty fruit. On the palate it is very vibrant, with a lick of grapefruit and lime against ripe, sweet tropical fruit all fleshed out with a little cashew and oatmeal from a short time in oak. With a nice mouthfeel and quite a long finish, this is exemplary summer stuff and highly recommended. £3.99, Oddbins.
