Wheeler Yarra Valley Electric Lines Chardonnay 2021

‘Upper Yarra Valley Chardonnay (I10V5) from the excellent Bulong Vineyard (Yarra Junction), a gentle south-facing slope grown on grey clay loam soils. Harvested in late February, fruit was gently pressed to tank to settle. Following a light racking, juice is naturally fermented in close to 100%, neutral French barriques. Rested on fine lees for 9 months with bâtonnage. MLF in some barrels. Unfined/Unfiltered/Vegan.’

A relatively new addition to the Wheeler line-up, but one I’ve quickly come to enjoy. It shows lovely varietal character, with lemon, straw and peach in the primary realm, and some smoke and nuttiness from bottle age. The real magic is on the palate – it’s silky and bright, with immense mineral zing throughout the mouth, hence the name. It’s the sort of wine you can happily drink on a Friday or Saturday night on the couch in your PJs, or in a classy restaurant with some cheese or seafood.