For those who’ve tasted the entry-level 2012 Wickhams Road Yarra Valley Chardonnay, the expectations for this Estate release are surely high. The good news is that it delivers…emphatically. Intensity, texture, drive and integration. But above all length. It’s almost excessively persistent.
Fine acid, savoury leesy weight through the midpalate, toast, minerals and woodspice through the finish. Porcelain-like delicacy without any sacrifice of flavour. Nectarine, grapefruit, green apple and a suggestion of pears lightly drizzled with acacia honey. Subtle almond meal nuances. I’ve been drinking it for two days and can’t find anything to suggest that it doesn’t deserve a gold medal rating. 94 Excellent
Region: Yarra Valley
Alcohol: 13.2%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $18.99
Tasted: May 2013
Great news! Altho also somewhat predictable. Very interested in how the pinot will turn out this year. Also have high hopes…
Pinot looking very smart on day two. Will check in again tomorrow then get a review up. Franco’s wines are predictably good
Fortunately they also seem to express the character of the vintage very clearly as well.
I’ve tried the Pinot. Medium weight and intensity but lovely poise and length. Thought it would gain weight with age. I had it at about 93 points. I’m keen to see the 1er from this year for its greater weight. Interestingly, Boccaccio haven’t got either this wine or the Pinot up on their website yet so the credit card has to stay in the wallet for the time being.
The Estate Pinot appears to be one for the cellar – as is usually the case. Which isn’t to say that the Chardonnays don’t age well. It certainly has poise and extension. Both wines are due for release in June.
OK, preparing credit card…
The thing about April/May is that your hit with a new vintage from many people. Just got the mail out from Alex Head also…
Yep, it’s a time of year that crushes many of our budgets. Still, kinda fun. Looking forward to tasting the new Head wines too.
Hi Jeremy, I’m 24 hours and 2 glasses into the bottle and the wine hasn’t budged an inch. So I’m waiting now until tomorrow to have another glass which will be 48 hours after opening. It ticks all the right boxes for me and when it fleshes out i think this will be a ripping Chardy at sub $20.00. For me, this needs time, 3 or 4 maybe 5 years, but I don’t mind waiting. I like my Chardy’s golden in colour and aged, this will deliver.
Cheers and have a great Xmas.
Dave Tribolet.