Sourced from a single vineyard in Mount Barker (the Langton) and with the fruit intentionally left to ripen a little longer. Pressed straight into barrel for primary fermentation (50% new French oak; the rest 1st and 2nd year) and allowed to continue through Malolactic fermentation to enhance the richness and depth.

West Cape Howe, Old School, Chardonnay, Mount Barker, 2019

Richly aromatic with buttery, creamy peach stone fruits with support from grilled lime and grapefruit citrus. Oak is obvious and intentional with spicy, toasty notes yet doesn’t overwhelm the fruit. The palate, as expected, is rich with creamy viscosity and spice under bittersweet grapefruit. A crisp acid profile ensures there’s still a fine spine to wrap the flesh around. One for those who ask for “a bigger Chardonnay.”

RRP: $22
Alc: 14%
Rating: 17.25/20

Wine sample courtesy of West Cape Howe