The 2011 Journey Wines Chardonnay was a winner and the follow-up is every bit as good. It’s more expressive aromatically and certainly able to be enjoyed right now – although it has the acid structure, intensity, balance and length to handle five years in a cool cellar. Sourced from two sites; one in Gruyere and the other in Yellingbo in the upper Yarra Valley. Fermented with wild yeast in 25% new French oak puncheons and older French barriques. No malolactic allowed, regular battonage.
Smells inviting. Nectarine, light honeysuckle notes, sourdough, smoked almonds, hazelnuts and lemon. It’s taut and possesses terrific focus and shape in the mouth. The palate adds adult bitterness in the form of grapefruit and pith. Ample flavour. Plenty of woodspice too. Tangy and refreshing on the finish. Tempted to go a point higher here but I’ll be conservative. Definitely recommended buying though. 92 Very Good
Region: Yarra Valley
Alcohol: 13.0%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $32
Tasted: May 2013