2010 Montalto Chardonnay
Mornington Peninsula , Victoria
There is no mistaking just how much a good Chardonnay loves food and this one continues to prove its worth. Chardonnay, in all its glory, provides synergy to a dish with its fresh acid, fuller but not flambouyant flavours and body. This example from the Mitchell family’s vineyard in the cool climes of Mornington Peninsula’s Red Hill sub region provides all the hallmarks of fine Chardonnay. They also do a Pinot Noir under the Montalto label that is definitely worth seeking out.
Aromas of fleshy peach with a hint of melon ripeness and a distinctly nutty cream rise from the glass with just a whiff of fresh sun softened butter on completion. The fruit sings on the palate with a note reminiscent of orange blossom. This richness continues on the palate with a creamy soft and silky texture with a long generous and slightly firmer finish – just right for your next mouthful.
There are many choices when it comes to matching food with this wine, why not go traditional and enjoy with your Christmas turkey if you go light on the trimmings or perhaps an indulgent Barramundi with Herbed Macadamia crust.
My serving recommendation for this wine: a Chardonnay that has been matured on oak deserves a glass that will keep everything in balance. A goblet shape with a wider mouth will be perfect and will keep the texture soft and full. A taller tulip shape doesn’t get as much oxygen to the wine and the wine will seem firmer and lose some richness. Watch that you don’t serve this wine too cold. Just cool is best, any colder and you will lose that texture – perhaps let it sit for ten minutes or so after it comes out of the fridge.
Distribution: on-line, fine wine stores, restaurants and cellar door.
Value: $38
© Lisa Johnston October 2012
Wine Diva Wines of the Month, November 2012
