The labels for the Handpicked Wines Tasmanian Collection are striking. The Pinot with its Billy Buttons and now this Chardonnay with evocative and potential bias-rendering oyster shell. Just as well the wines are as equally striking. Matured in a mix of new and old French (Burgundian) oak.

Handpicked Wines, Collection Series, Chardonnay, Tasmania, 2019

White chocolate and nougat give (apparent) sweet support to crisp, clean white peach, touches of green apple and austere lemon citrus. A touch of funk makes for complexity over briny oyster shell. The palate shows balance with just enough winemaking judgement of oak to bolster the up front fruit before signature Tasmanian acidity tightens the whole thing right up. Clean and precise with fine intensity.

RRP: $44.99
Alc: 12.7%
Rating: 18.75/20 (94/100)

Wine sample courtesy of Handpicked Wines