Wine of the Week – 18/01/04
Ozzie Chardonnay has a tough time standing out from the crowd: when considering contenders for Wine of the Week, it is always tempting to look for the unfamiliar. But sometimes, a really good example from this most ubiquitous category reminds one of what lovely wines the Australians can produce. There is 11% Semillon in the blend here, which is possibly one factor in the suggestion of rich, nutty, buttered toastiness on the nose. This wine is unoaked, but that Semillon, plus an enriching regime of lees ageing and stirring, has given the wine complexity and an oatmeally quality that adds lots of warmth and texture to melon and white peach fruit. Thre is a real edge of sweetness on the palate, but those leesy, lightly waxy flavours and a great thrust of lemony acidity really kicks in, giving the wine power and a decisive finish, whilst it stays easy to drink and food friendly. £5.49 Oddbins, and Budgens.
