TN: Howard Park Chardonnay 2019

[Waiters Friend]

G'day

I'm a long time fan of this wine, and you will find a posts of couple of vertical tastings elsewhere on this site.

The 2019 vintage was overshadowed by the vintages either side of it (in my humble opinion), and this is a lighter wine but still in the Howard Park Chardonnay style.

Already showing yellow colour. The nose has citrus, nectarine, white peach, a little cashew and vanilla. There's modest evidence of French oak. The palate has most of the flavours already described, but has a degree of texture from lees / battonage. Acid is fresh but not dominating, and there's a slight savoury character as well. Moderate length but overall a satisfying wine.

I have had vintages of this wine back to 10-12 years of age, but I suspect this will be best in another 3-5 years or so. I'll let you know

Cheers
Allan

[Michael McNally]

Thanks for consistently posting notes Allan. I don't always comment but your posts are excellent.

We all should post more notes!

Cheers

Michael

[Waiters Friend]

Following up from the last TN 2 years ago, the colour has darkened very slightly.

The nose is showing more nutty, cashew aromas than previously. Fruit is still dominant with peach, necatarine and grapefruit but with the oak coming out more, it brings a nice balance to the nose.

The palate shows similar balance, with slightly more citrus than stonefruits now, and a textural mouthfeel from the oak and lees work. Acid remains in a supporting role, and the wine has moderate length.

Although this has changed somewhat in two years, it remains a satisfying wine.

Cheers
Allan

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