Margaret River 13.5% Screwcap $18
I had a brief but torrid fling with this wine during the 2006 and 2007 vintages. I really was very enamoured. We got together a couple of times for the 2008 but were estranged the following vintage. Time to hook up again and see how we suit each other.
I think the 2010 will be a one night stand. The wine smells of lemons, melons, yellow peaches and grapefruit along with some sawdust oak. There’s plenty of power here, with that yellow peach fairly coursing through the fruit laden palate. Citrus does its best to temper the richness but ultimately it’s a losing battle. The oak seems a touch raw (and slightly “dirty”) and alcohol rears its head on the finish. There’s not a lot of finesse here. Not a terrible wine but it’s too sweet and bawdy for me. Serve with rich food.
Winery website- http://www.brooklandvalley.com.au/
The 08 was really good. Not sure what happened since then..
Jinx! Now you can't drink another 2010 Verse 1 Chardonnay until somebody says your name!
But seriously, I wish I saw this note 3 days ago when I optimistically bought a bottle – I probably would've bought the Wine Will Eat Itself recommended (for $14) 2010 Thomas Hyland instead.
JL – I remember the 08 as being far more restrained, with better fruit and oak – I enjoyed it whilst holidaying on Stradbroke Island a while back. This release seemed a very different wine.
CP – I must admit to having a chuckle when I saw you had reviewed the same wine at almost the same time
Look forward to your thoughts on the '10 Penfolds TH when you get to taste it.
I will make sure not to mention your name JP if we have the Verse 1 2010 Chard over for dinner – things might get awkward. Intrigued by tge 10 TH based on your review and some of the more expensive releases by them as well – Penfolds have their act together when it comes to Chardonnay.
Cheers
RB