- Beechworth, VIC - $70
- Screwcap
- 13.5%alc
The introduction of Savaterre Chardonnay into Langton's latest classification really caught my eye. Why? Because I've never had it before and can't pass judgement. A bit of research reveals it as a high quality chardonnay (obviously) from the same region that brings us Giaconda. That's about all the selling I needed...
After following the back label's advice to decant for several hours, Savaterre's unfiltered and deeply coloured 2008 unloads a good dollop of toasty, buttery oak aromas laid in place by 2 years French oak maturation. Its wood is quite prominent at this stage but underneath it you'll find a deep fragrance of cumquat and peach, just lifted by a tight note of cinnamon. There could be a lack of buzz to its complex, relatively profound scent, but I can see time sorting things out. Beautifully textured, bright and savoury, its palate is sumptuously expressive yet soft and fluffy, revealing a considerable strength concealed by a gentle nature. It presents a smooth and seamless balance of faintly tropical chardonnay fruits with toasty/buttery oak, framed by a viscous undercarriage of yeasty characters and a refreshingly brisk acidity, which combine to deliver the wine with perfect harmony towards a good, spotlessly clean finish marked by tasty touches of buttery nuts and light spice.
ü+ A superbly textured chardonnay whose complex winemaker inputs play the starring role, but its quality of fruit is such that it remains a most brilliant drink. It'll be particularly interesting to see how this balance evolves over the next few years. Drink to 2016.
95 points
Wow! This sounds very, very good Chris. By the way, I just mentioned your review on the Auswine forum. I hope that's OK.
ReplyDeleteLovely wine this. Lovely.
ReplyDeleteSean,
ReplyDeleteThanks. :) It is a very, very good wine really, but I'm just a little unsure whether it's in the zone right now, or will get better with a little bottle age. Only time will tell.
No worries re mentioning the review on Auswine forum. You can mention it anywhere you please :)
Cheers,
Chris P
AG,
ReplyDeleteI was reading your note on the 09A Chardonnay the other day, and am already anticipating tasting (and perhaps bringing home!) the wine on May 1st from Penfolds.
Cheers,
Chris P