Eight at the Gate Wrattonbully Family Selection Chardonnay 2021

A different style of Chardy from the team, this one looking for a longer ageing period and more complexity, not least through the inclusion of some French oak. The free run juice goes directly to a mix of new and seasoned French oak barrels. Green/gold in colour, this version definitely has more depth and complexity, with good intensity and yet, there is restraint and refinement here as well. Florals, lemon notes, gentle hints of stonefruit with good power on the palate and a fine line of acidity running the full journey. Nicely balanced and a lingering finish so four to six years ahead of it although the best is yet to come and expect the score to rise commensurately.