2017 Hamilton Russell Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
On the nose, the 2017 Chardonnay has all of the classic Chardonnay expressions at its core, showing apples, pears and creamy lemons with soft oak tones of nutmeg and a white-spiced minerality. The palate gives way to a textured and mouth-coating mid-palate with a lemony heart and a long, spiced cinnamon/green apple finish. The aftertaste is grippy, thoughtful and fine. With 71,556 bottles made, this represents a good-quality wine at a competitive price. Give it try!
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Chardonnay was whole-bunch-pressed, destemmed and matured for nine months with partial malolactic and light bâtonnage , in around 30% new wood, of which 40% is not toasted. It has an attractive bouquet of yellow plum and a subtle patisserie scent, the oak neatly integrated. The palate is well balanced with slightly lower acidity than its peers, good depth, a slightly waxy texture and a touch of candied orange peel toward the finish. Enjoy this over the next five or six years, possibly longer.
The 2017 Chardonnay is classy stuff all the way that's 100% varietal aged mostly in French oak, with small amounts brought up in foudre, ceramic eggs, and stainless steel. Orchard fruits, pineapple, and white flower notes all emerge from the glass. It's medium-bodied, beautifully textured, and seamless on the palate. With beautiful purity, vibrant, integrated acidity, and a great finish, it should keep for a decade or more.