This vintage won two trophies for Champion Wine of the Show and Champion Chardonnay at the National Wine Awards, 2022 – now a few years in bottle. A pale straw colour in the glass, with a voluminous bouquet of grapefruit, nectarine, lemon, pear, hazelnut, vanilla and baking spice – topped off with a waft of struck match reductivity. Bursting with energy, there is a saline acidity and plenty of toasty character from the oak. A smooth, viscous texture adds depth to the juicy opening, and a weetbix, oatmealy flavour shows towards the back of the palate. Finishes long and with a roundness that pulls it all together. I can see why it was a Champion – and good value to boot. 94pts
Isabel Estate Chardonnay 2020
