Jean-Claude Mas has had a hit with the Arrogant Frog range. Affordable and quaffable French wines, trying to take a little of the stuffiness out the perception of Euro vin. Here the sub label is ‘Toasty and Buttery.’ Normally this is how I like my breakfasts rather than my wine, but there is definitely a market for this style of Chardonnay. From the Aude, Orb and Herault valleys in the Languedoc, southern France.

Jean-Claude Mas, Arrogant Frog, Chardonnay, IGP Pays d’Oc, 2023

Soft golden hue. Dough, lemon tart, grapefruit skin, rich yellow peach, warming butter, juniper, candied cream, café latte and almond meal. Fleshy and round. Char and toast with that creamy overtness. There’s a hint of alcohol warmth and a touch of acidity to clean the tail up. Short and sharp finish, but those that like the style will be happy with the bargain price.

RRP: $13.99
Alc: 13%
Rating: 86/100

Wine sample courtesy of Palate PR and Pinnacle Drinks