Howard Park Chardonnay 2020

Location, location, location is at the heart of Howard Park’s 2020 Chardonnay. It’s not one of those power-packed Margaret River styles thanks to fruit sourcing from the cooler southern part of Margaret River. it’s a picture of elegance and restraint but with delicious detail thanks to the application of all the winemaking tricks seen in the best chardonnays, including natural ferment in French oak before significant lees aging. Fruit is in the honeydew melon and citrus zone, even orange peel, with some delicatessen funk in the background plus classy oak.

So it’s seriously complex with good fruit concentration nicely balanced by fine acidity with tinges of biscotti to finish. While drinking well already you also get the impression this wine has time on its side, so will be good to go over the next eight or so years.