Fox Creek Adelaide Hills Chardonnay 2022

The famed Fox Creek winery from McLaren Vale has spread its wings in recent years, expanding the range of both grapes and the regions from which they are sourced. This fine Chardy hails from the Adelaide Hills. Fermentation is with a combination of selected and native yeasts, in a mix of tanks and French oak (24% new), followed by a further stint for maturation. A gleaming pale yellow, we have perfumes of pears, hazelnuts, citrus and a minerally backing. This is a fresh, youthful Chardonnay for enjoying in its youth, one which represents cracking value, rather than one designed to challenge the long ageing, wildly expensive examples – nothing wrong with that. Good vibrant acidity drives the style, through to decent length with good intensity maintained throughout. Balanced, clean and fresh, it is terrific drinking now, although there is no rush.