Cullen Chardonnay 2007

[Waiters Friend]

G'day

I've been saving these as 'special occasion' wines. Unfortunately, they have snuck up to 10 years of age without me looking at them as often as I should. So, for no reason, my partner and I cracked one last night as a pre-dinner drink.

Wow! Gold colour without looking tired or over the hill, and still bright in the glass. Fabulous, complex nose (especially when it warmed up a little) with white peach, nectarine / stone fruit, spiciness (oak?), warm cashews, and the wine changed over time to reveal more aromas. The palate is where it really shone, however - layers of developed fruit supported by modest grip and acid and more secondary development.

All of this kaliedoscope of aromas, flavours and textures somehow ended up in a balanced, flawless chardonnay. Thoroughly delicious, and I am glad I still have a couple . I doubt it will get any better, but it has definitely not past its prime.

Who needs a special occasion?

Allan

[Willard]

Sometimes opening the wine turns the moment into an occasion. Thanks for the note Allan.

I loved the Voyager from '07, all gone now, along with my one and only LEAS which had a way to run still.

Will

[Rory]

I find that here in Victoria, too often the Margaret River Chardy's get overlooked. Yet they continually produce amongst the top 5 Chardonnays in the country.

[michel]

Great note
I have had some lovely Cullen

[Hacker]

Some wineries flagships like Cullen DM may be overhyped whereas their Chardonnay gives greater value. Possibly the same with Leeuwin Estate, Pierro and Voyager. Long live Margaret River Chardonnay.

[Ian S]

Agreed - it took me a while, but eventually I figured I liked Cullen's chardonnay more than the Cab/Merlot. Both are pricey, so even the Chardonnay will be a very occasional purchase.

[Mahmoud Ali]

Speaking of Margaret River Chardonnay, a 2012 Devil's Lair late last year was brilliant, young, focused and electric.

Mahmoud.

[Waiters Friend]

Speaking of Margaret River Chardonnay, a 2012 Devil's Lair late last year was brilliant, young, focused and electric.

Mahmoud.

I endorse your comments regarding Devils Lair, Mahmoud. Consistently good, and I have 2013 onwards in the cellar.

[andyled]

We called into Piero yesterday afternoon and sampled their latest Chardonay. It has the potential to be a excellent in years to come. Had a lovely conversation with Veronica Cullity who was in the cellar door taking down the Christmas decorations.

[Mahmoud Ali]

Speaking of Margaret River Chardonnay, a 2012 Devil's Lair late last year was brilliant, young, focused and electric.

I endorse your comments regarding Devils Lair, Mahmoud. Consistently good, and I have 2013 onwards in the cellar.

Thanks, the 2012 was poured by a friend of mine while I have a few of the 2013 vintage. Having had the former recently I plan on holding on the the latter for a few years.

Mahmoud.