2017 Kingston Estate Chardonnay
$17.90 btl / $214.80 cs (case of 12 x 750ml)
Leave it to the Aussies to take the noble French grape and turn it into the wine equivalent of a full-on party. Diversity in both terroir and wine making particularly in Australia’s cool-climate regions is resulting in an exciting spectrum of premium Chardonnays.
Chardonnay first came to Australia in the 1920s but didn’t find popularity until the 1970s. It is planted in virtually every region and makes a wide variety of wine styles from light-bodied, crisp and unoaked through to full-bodied, buttery, complex barrel matured versions. Premium Australian Chardonnay has evolved dramatically from the rich, ripe, full flavoured versions of the 80s and ’90s. The sourcing of fruit from cooler climate areas combined with a more gentle touch with oak use, lees contact and malolactic conversion has led to a more restrained balanced, age-worthy style.
Renowned for its cool-climate Chardonnay, Padthaway lies in the Limestone Coast, enjoying maritime influences keeping the region cool in summer and producing distinct regional characteristics. The 2017 Kingston Estate Chardonnay is an exceptional value just like the Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s a crisp, vibrant Chardonnay exhibiting the classic regional qualities and elegant structure typical of the cool climate Padthaway. Upfront white fleshy peach and stone-fruit with light creamy vanilla oak. Medium to full bodied stone fruits, including peach and nectarine, with a subtle creamy oak middle palate and long fruit driven zesty finish.
Price: Case of 12 at $214.80 ($17.90 per bottle)
Drink: Now or cellar over the next 7 years
Blend/Body: 100% Chardonnay, Medium-full bodied
Food Pairing: Grilled chicken, fish, seafood, summer salads and cream-sauce pasta