GEOFF MERRILL RESERVE CHARDONNAY

Another classic Geoff Merrill release, and once again you get the benefit of his philosophy of giving wines time before they hit the market. The Reserve Chardonnay is always released with at least three years of age behind it, so much of the development you would normally have to wait for has already begun.

There’s plenty going on here lime, lemon, melon and tropical fruit, layered with cream, toast, cashew and a touch of lanolin from the French oak. It’s rich and opulent without becoming heavy, with fresh acidity keeping everything beautifully balanced and a long, zesty citrus finish. Geoff is one of the great characters and genuine good blokes of the Australian wine industry, and his influence extends well beyond the wines themselves, having played an important role in helping establish Australia’s early export markets. This is another terrific example of his style, generous, mature, beautifully balanced and ready to drink.