100% Single vineyard from Mudgee. A few years ago, I wrote a little piece on the region after visiting for the first time. There was a thought then that Chardonnay would be Mudgee’s varietal hero, I’m not sure that prediction has yet to come to fruition, but wines like this certainly help the cause. 50% new oak, wild fermentation and some parcels allowed to go through malolactic fermentation for another layer of flavour and complexity.

Robert Stein, Reserve, Chardonnay, Mudgee, 2016

Such an enticing aroma of vanilla dipped peach stonefruits, roasted cashew, hints of nougat and spicy lemon zest biscuit. The 50% new oak is not an issue. A delicious balance between the richer, creamier MLF and oak characters, vibrant fruit and the crisp acidity of the region. Layer upon layer of stonefruit and citrus flavour driven on with considerable length. The kick of spice towards the finish is a pleasant punctuation. Top notch chardonnay.

RRP: $40
Alc: 13.5%
Rating: 17.5/20

Wine sample courtesy of Robert Stein and Define Wine