Holm Oak Chardonnay 2025
- 93
- $32
- Drink by: 2026-2034
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Three clones of Chardonnay were used here, with the fruit coming from two discrete blocks. A natural fermentation in barrel, 30% of that being new French oak, was followed by 50% of the wine undergoing malolactic fermentation. Maturation was for a further eight months with occasional stirring of the lees. A straw hue, the nose reveals notes of nectarines, citrus, spices, hints of oatmeal and lemon curd. There is good intensity throughout with impressive focus and balance. A sleek texture runs right through to the lingering and rather persistent finish. A most attractive style for enjoying over the next six to eight years.
Ken was born and bred in Brisbane, Queensland. He had a non-trendy, perfectly happy childhood, in a family convinced alcohol meant instant condemnation to Hades. But a break fishing on the Great Barrier Reef, and some good wine, started a serious obsession that eventually took over. It did not stop Ken being chastised later for drinking Pol champagne, disgusted he’d drink anything made by a Cambodian dictator. Now, Ken mostly writes on wine, champagne and spirits for various newspapers, magazines and books, but is perhaps best known for his work in The Courier Mail. He also has a little sideline writing on cigars, fishing, travel and food. When not writing, fly-fishing for trout in NZ or bonefish on the flats of Cuba, travelling or smoking cigars, he is no doubt following a variety of sporting teams – the occasionally glorious Queensland Reds rugby, the dysfunctional Washington Redskins, the dodgy Arsenal and especially revels in the world restored to its proper axis with the return of the Ashes to their rightful home.
