So far the 2013 Yarra Valley Chardonnays I’ve tasted have been on the fruitier side. Which will please certain drinkers of course. I’m more a fan of what the previous three vintages have offered, but it’s early days yet.
Peachier and broader than previous releases I’ve tasted. Doesn’t have the usual incisiveness or mineral line. Sweet melon, banana and red apples are backed up by restrained savoury notes and a modicum of grip. Does want for detail and length. Having said that it’s not entirely short on the palate. Compact early drinking pleasure. 88
Region: Yarra Valley
Alcohol: 13.0%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $35
Tasted: March 2014
http://www.timomayer.com.au
Agree with most of that. Doesn’t know if it’s being tight and linear or full and fruity. And it goes astray a bit on the back palate. Not a great success, though it’s still very drinkable obviously. About 87 from last night’s tasting – we’ll see what the rest looks like tonight.
Have you tried the 2013 Big Betty Shiraz? Not my kind of wine, not being a real fan of cool-climate Shiraz, but it does what it’s meant to do very well, provided you like a bit of meaty pong.
MC
No, I wasn’t aware it had been released. Makes sense for a vintage like 2013 in the lower Yarra Valley though…if you’ll allow me to generalise.
I would imagine that you’d enjoy it. I wish I’d bought a second bottle at least. Something a little bit different for me. Still got the Close Planted and the Doktor Pinot to go.
MC
Second bottle better. Youthful banana esters in retreat. Not as sweet. Touch more minerality and length. 89-90 point-ish for me.
It was a lot better on the second night for me. At least 90.
MC