I seem to be specialising in cheap Burgundy here at Full Pour, but it's simply a reflection of what I can afford to drink on a regular basis. I suppose the key question at this end of the market is: am I better off purchasing local wines? And my answer is: it depends. I crave a variety of flavour profiles so, for me, questions of absolute quality aren't so pressing. On the other hand, if value for money were my sole objective, I'd probably bet my hard earned $30-50 on a local wine, as there are some beautiful wines in this price range.
A tasty aroma profile here, with slightly funky notes overlaying solid citrus and stone fruit. Perhaps some sulfur to, though it may simply be the wine's natural savouriness expressing itself as a sort of prickly smokiness. It's an easy wine to like, soothing and soft without falling into the trap of being bland. There's enough character to draw me back repeatedly, but it's so inviting that I come away feeling happy rather than challenged.
The palate is a contradiction of sorts, as it presents a very attractive flavour profile and clean structure yet shows a degree of dilution that leaves me slightly frustrated. The flavours here are a repeat of the nose with perhaps the addition of some caramel. So, typical Chardonnay fruit flavours and flashes of savouriness, here coming across as minerality. Mouthfeel is so very approachable and, to its credit, the whole thing is balanced admirably for immediate, pleasurable consumption. The wine's approachable structure and clingy flavours make me wonder what it could become if there were a notch more intensity, but it's futile to judge a wine by what it's not, especially one that is so easy to drink. Falls away a little on the finish, but by that point you're already smiling.
Not a worldbeater, then, and no doubt better value is obtainable locally, but this wine's flavour profile is most delicious, and its balance encourages maximum enjoyment over the short term. A fun, easy drinking white Burgundy.
Price: $A36
Closure: Cork
Date tasted: November 2008
Leave a comment