2017 Catlin Nellie Margaret Chardonnay

Matured in French oak barriques on lees for a period of 10 months. Brilliant very pale straw colour with green toned edges and a watery hue. Ripe pear and nectarine aromas are drawn from the glass followed by hints of dried honey, bees wax, lemon butter and spice. Nicely shaped the palate features nectarine, pear and lime fruits over delicate dried honey, biscuity oak and spicy cashew elements. Good underlying freshness with an elegant, gently fleshed conclusion.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5%

Other Reviews….
From a single vineyard near Hahndorf, whole-bunch pressed and wild fermented for 4 weeks in French barrels. Left on lees for 6 months in barrel. Great to have a chardonnay released with time allowed for development, and even then there are fresh, green tinges to the pale gold. Oak has gifted some vanilla spice to the familiar darker stone fruits that tingle a little on the palate as the fresh citrus elements wash in, leaving an even line of acidity and pith. Everything feels really well balanced and in place. Drink by 2026.
95 Points
Tony Love – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion