There’s much to like about this Montalto Estate wine but I do wish the oak was dialled back a bit. I’m of the opinion that, at two years of age, the wood should have pretty much fully integrated into a Chardonnay. Instead there’s still a rawness present on the back-palate. It’s nothing major and it won’t bother a lot of people but it’s worth mentioning.
Extremely nutty with some creamed butter to start with. The flavour profile is terrific; lime, tangerine and white peach with some much-loved hazelnut characters. It’s quite spry in the mouth but not without appropriate curves. If/once the oak fully settles it may rate higher again. 92 Very Good
Region: Mornington Peninsula
Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $39
Tasted: September 2012