Fermented in a mix of new and old large format barrels. Fermented with native/wild yeasts. Extended barrel maturation is intentional to build a wine of power and depth.

Ocean Eight, Grande, Chardonnay, Mornington Peninsula, 2016

The light gold colour gives nothing away to its age. Complex and savoury: struck match, almond croissant, sandy gravel, light Jersey caramel, lemon/lime rind, honey that’s just been set firm on ice cream and an evocative sweet native blossom. Mouth filling, layered and harmonious. Balance achieved with mastery to showcase the fruit’s depth and power while the barrel work acts like suit of armour. Initial flavour richness focuses to a cutting, long, dry finish.

RRP: $80
Alc: 13.2%
Rating:  19/20 (95/100)

Wine sample courtesy Ocean Eight