Fraser Gallop Estate Palladian Chardonnay 2022

Immediately strikes with the greater intensity and more focused precision which is part of the linear structure of this wine. It’s deeply complex already with a minerally, and slightly citrus and savoury combination. That heightened chalky minerality really says chardonnay at the highest level. There is power and drive here, yet it’s delivered with such sophisticated elegance. This is a tremendously promising wine. It is in the modern linear finer style.

From a single 100% Gingin vineyard. Tightly wound – deserves time to show its true colours. Silvery, fine and silky; a wine for Chablis fans. River pebble minerality, crushed blanched almond and toasty oak laced with spice. Citrus fruit, lemon pith and pip, white peach crunch and a lick of flint. Lovely purity of fruit among the oak toast. Plenty of energy.

So much going on here, from hazelnuts, lemon curd, salted caramel and baked apples to toasted brioche on the nose. It’s full-bodied, buttery and delicious, with lively, bright acidity. Intense. I like the salty caramel undertones on the long and sophisticated finish. Drink or hold. Screw cap.