If you’re intrigued by all the praise heaped on Oakridge’s ’864′ and ‘Lieu-dit’ Chardonnays but still baulk at the price tags then you’ve still got a few options. David Bicknell’s Midas touch extends to the highly drinkable ‘Over the Shoulder’ 2010 and the slightly diffuse yet undeniable charm offered by the ‘Parish of Gruyere’ from the same vintage. Having said that, I reckon if you really want to see what all the fuss is about then step up to the ‘Oakridge’ label. The stylistic excellence of the top tier wines is very much on show – you might not get the single vineyard terroir thrills but, by golly, there’s a lot of elegant Chardonnay goodness here and you’ll have enough change from a $50 note to take care of the roast chook accompaniment.
Lemon, peach fuzz, apple and cantaloupe rind with hints of toast and almond meal. Trademark Oakridge precision, (natural) fervency and delineation on a palate which stretches out with lazy good length and mineral quartz refreshment. It will build very nicely over the mid-term but there’s no reason not to indulge in a bottle or two now. Excellent
Region: Yarra Valley
Alcohol: 12.8%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $38
Tasted: August 2011