Alluring, engaging and absolutely delicious, this is a great Chardonnay from Gunpowder Wines. I'm happy to bang the drum again and proudly profess that Hunter Valley Chardonnay is underrated.
100% barrel fermentation with partial malolactic fermentation takes place in a combination of new and used French oak.
Sourced from Mt View, one of the most picturesque destinations in the Hunter Valley, the red soils of that subregion have been proven to produce fabulous Chardonnay.
There is a delicate mango parfait thing going on here and I love it. Whispers of pineapple husk and freeze dried mango tuck in behind white flesh stonefruit, but it is the creaminess from the oak brings that parfait appeal. The hint of coconut husk seals the deal (normally a result of American oak but not in this case), but the balance and shape elevate this further. Superfine ginger spices curl around a long and seductive finish. Classy stuff from a small producer having a crack.
Drink to five years+
93/100
Region: Hunter Valley