One of the best value Chardonnays going around, this Montalto Pennon Hill punches well above its price point. The victim of a couple of weather impacted vintages, it hasn't been sighted for a couple of years so it's great to see it hit the tasting bench once more.
A blend of fruit from Montalto's renowned Tuerong and Red Hill sites (64/36), it was whole bunch pressed to French oak barriques and puncheons (23% new), wild fermented then remained on some solids for nine months. It saw 100% Malolactic fermentation.
If you see this on the pour at venue or on a wine list, jump on it. Loaded with interest, it kicks off with green mango, pineapple husk, barbecued peach and caramelised peach aromas. Butterscotch and vanilla fold through the mouth with a captivating depth and length to follow. Compared to previous years there is a touch more oak influence this time which I don't mind. A fine veil of ginger and dab of cinnamon sidle up on close with a feathering of textural delight. Long and super satisfying, yeah, this is super drinking for the money.
Drink to five years+
94/100
Region: Mornington Peninsula
RRP: $36
Source: Sample
Source: Sample
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