Smalltown Vineyards "The Next Big Thing" Chardonnay 2022, Barossa Valley
Smalltown Vineyards "The Next Big Thing" Chardonnay 2022, Barossa Valley
RRP:
£12.60
per bottle
(You save (NaN%))
A modern Australian Chardonnay that leaves the heavy-handed style behind. Fresh, balanced and textured, with ripe fruit and just enough oak to add shape without taking over.
The label plays on the idea of word-of-mouth discoveries, and the wine fits the description well. This is a well-made Barossa Chardonnay with clear varietal character and more depth than you might expect at the price.
In the glass, expect citrus and ripe orchard fruit with a rounded mid-palate and a faint biscuity note from restrained oak ageing. The finish stays clean and fresh, with enough acidity to keep everything in balance.
If you’ve drifted away from Australian Chardonnay, this is a good reminder of how much the style has changed.
Food Pairing
Good with roast chicken, pork, prawns and grilled seafood. Also works well with richer dishes where the wine’s texture can hold its place without feeling heavy.
Quick Info
Bottle Size:
75cl
ABV:
13.5%
Designation:
Barossa Valley
Vintage:
2022
Oak Influence:
Oaked
BIN:BTL-0108
Current Stock:76
Style:White Wine
Style:Rich & Textured Whites
More Information
Australia
In 1873 French judges, tasting blind, praised wines from Australia, but withdrew when the provenance was revealed, saying that wines of that quality must clearly be French. Vines have been grown successfully in Australia since the 1820s as European settlers realised that the Mediterranean climate was ideal for viticulture.
One of the world’s most popular grapes, Chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, sparkling Blanc de Blancs to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak.
Depending on how ripe the grapes get, the flavour ranges from crisp, clean citrus and green apple, to ripe peaches and tropical fruit. Notable Chardonnays can be found in France, California, Australia, England, and beyond.
Over the past 20 years Rolf and has established strong relationships with the best Barossa growers. Smalltown Vineyards express many of the Barossa’s prized districts form Gomersal, Kalimna as well as the Eden Valley. Using minimal intervention and natural fermentation to best capture the Barossa’s magical flavours.
