Highgate Barrel Selection Hunter Valley Chardonnay 2023

A sunny, bright Chardonnay that doesn’t try to reinvent the Hunter style, simply presents some nicely extended barrel-aged qualities to enhance, and bring that little something extra to a wine that just asks you to open and enjoy it right now. Falls very much into the drink now kind of style for me, although there might be those who choose to differ. While the use of “barrel selection” might raise expectations of high oak, its use is integrated and works well in delivering added touches of hazelnut and toastiness amid a wine filled to brimming in Asian pear, peach and melon fruits with layers of spice. Medium bodied with a light texture that helps with both the building of flavour and length, it also boasts Hunter brisk acidity.