I must admit, De Bortoli’s Chardonnays haven’t been my favourite wines in their extensive portfolio previously. These 2011s may change my opinion. I actually tasted barrel samples that went towards making them with Steve Webber and Sarah Fagan last year and they looked good then too. Unfortunately I was backing up from a McLarenVale trip with a return stop in Brisbane to take care of some business…so I was pretty buggered at the time – so much so that Steve actually came over at one point to ask if I was ok. Those bags under my eyes must have been showing…
Nectarine and lemon over pear with a handful of nuts. Good flavours, nothing too lean or confronting. The acid whisks things along nicely but a rounded mouthfeel provides a counterpoint. Oak is well measured and in the background. Ease of drinking combined with a little finesse. Fairly priced too and I suspect you’ll track it down for even less at retail. Will be even better in a few months and live well beyond that. Very Good
Region: Yarra Valley
Alcohol: 12.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $29
Tasted: June 2012