Paracombe Chardonnay 2026
- 92
- $23
- Drink by: 2026-2029
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Unoaked Chardonnay had its moment in the sun a couple of decades ago but, when done well, remains a legitimate and enjoyable style. Estate fruit only, production of this wine is 694 cases. Pale straw/yellow in colour, the wine has pleasing aromatics with stone fruits, a touch of the tropicals, peaches, figs and mango. A delightful summer drinking style with good energy from zippy acidity. There is an ever-so-slightly crunchy texture, and the wine is of medium length. It will provide thoroughly enjoyable drinking over the next two to three 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.
