Rich and concentrated, this Reserve Chardonnay 2019 from McLeish Estate is more developed than I anticipated.
Concentrated, its bright, almost fluorescent yellow appearance captures the eye in the glass. Tense and tight, it is highlighted by lemons with lemon juice and preserved lemons stealing the limelight early on. Some roasted cashews and vanilla bean tuck in behind. It took a couple of days to settle, and in doing so, caramelised peaches and nectarines rise up adding a neat touch. The oak is quite heavy handed and would please those who enjoy richer styles.
Drink to five years.
89/100
Region: Hunter Valley