Hunter Valley 14.0% Screwcap $30
I’ve consumed my fair share of Scarborough Yellow Label Chardonnay in my time. It’s a proven performer; good, honest Chardonnay at a more than fair price. This is the first time I’ve sampled the White Label though. Judging from the 2009 vintage, it’s certainly a step up and worth paying a little extra for.
A complex, worked bouquet of white and yellow peach, apples, limes, nougat, spice and toast. Controlled glycerol characters play a strong part in a convincingly textured palate. There’s generous sweet fruit on entry, and it forms a core as the mid-palate adds savoury edged lees notes. After that, citrus begins to emerge on an emphatic finish. We’re talking real length here.
There is a hint of alcohol warmth but nothing too off putting. It may even disappear with more time in the bottle…and while this is drinking very well already, an integrated acid structure should hold it in good stead over the next four or five years. Quite a serious Chardy all up. I was quite taken with it.
Winery website- http://www.scarboroughwine.com.au/