Thursday, May 29, 2008

Reynolds Vineyards South Australia Chardonnay, 2006

This is a nicely made Chardonnay, with fruit coming mainly from the Nanya Vineyard along the Murray River, about 150 miles northeast of Adelaide. For maximum freshness, grapes were picked at night, crushed and pressed, then chilled to "cold settle" overnight. Complexity and richness were gained through partial malolactic fermentation and aging in French oak. The cuvee also includes 10 percent Chenin Blanc.

We served it as a picnic wine following a community flower planting in the park across from our home, and it was very pleasant. And it's full flavored enough to be a serviceable dinner wine.

A medium deep color with oaky brown butter notes but also a full range of Chardonnay smells and flavors--lime, grapefruit, green apples. Seems richer than last bottle [April 18, 2008] but no less lively. Full range of flavors with good acidity and a limey finish. For $8.99, it's an excellent value.

Reynolds also makes a Reserve Chardonnay from fruit near the winery in the Orange area of central New South Wales. From reports I have read, it is a special wine.

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