Chateau Montelena Chardonnay 2019

Golden straw-coloured in the glass, the wine opens with cinnamon and ripe peach, bolstered by aromas of melon, fig, and pear. More fruity than floral upon release, there’s nonetheless plenty of honeysuckle and spice, softening to green apple and vanilla. The palate initially fused with lemon curd and ripe orange, there’s dynamic tension transitioning to the midpalate between the suppleness of summer stonefruit and the austere acid beneath. The citrus lingers as well, amidst a billowy texture that bolsters the bare minerality, contrasted only by the whisper-soft hint of fresh baked bread. The finish is bright and fresh, ripe apricot along with orange marmalade lend a slight sweetness peppered by toasted almond and clove.

Matt Crafton Winemaker