Higher Plane Forest Grove Chardonnay 2018

It’s well known that the Gin Gin clone has found its home in Margaret River.  The clonal expression there is one of power, acidity, concentration and structure.  While the Gin Gin clone forms the backbone of this chardonnay (46%) it is not the only player on the field.  Clone 95, typified by higher, more linear citrus acidity and tighter fruit contributes 23% of the blend, and the balance is down to clones 76, 96 and 277. 

The wine is 100% barrel fermented, and this shows on the nose and the palate in the form of oriental cooking spices, almond meal, ground cashew and hints of macadamia.  The pure fruit is a concentrated expression of yellow peach, salted preserved lemon and lemon curd.  Very good length of flavour and a quiet balance and restraint that undoubtedly comes from the blend of clones.  9 months in French barriques (10% new), lees stirred every three to four weeks for 6 months, then bottled.  Vegan friendly and great value.

Erin Larkin

Erin Larkin is an independent wine writer based in Perth, Western Australia. She is a contributor to The Wine Companion magazine, Gourmet Traveller Wine, The Post and previously weekly columnist for The Western Suburbs Weekly newspaper, writer for the Liquor Barons Group plus wine segment host for 6PR. Erin has judged at wine shows, and is a judge for the Australian Wine List of the Year Awards, and China Wine List of the Year Awards, both since 2014. On top of writing and judging, Erin regularly hosts wine events, consults on wine lists and helps wine collectors to manage their wine collections. FInd out more at www.erinlarkin.com.au