2008 Narkoojee Reserve Chardonnay

No Reserve Chardonnay was produced at Narkoojee in 2007 as yields were dramatically reduced with all the fruit instead making it into Narkoojee's Lily Grace Chardonnay. The 2008 Narkoojee Reserve Chardonnay does not quite reach the lofty heights of the 2006, but nonetheless is another exceptional effort.

The 2008 has not had the time in bottle that the '06 had on initial tasting and so will build further complexity and power with time. Winemaker Harry Friend also explains that the 2008 is a slight, though deliberate departure in style. Whole bunch pressing was employed for the first time which has imparted characteristics that Friend believes bestow this wine with a greater sense of elegance than previous bottlings. Bright straw colour with golden edges and straw hue. The nose displays superb intensity with aromas of melon, butterscotch, cashew, honeycombe, yeast lees and biscuit leaping out of the glass. Rich, full bodied palate with a creamy texture displaying flavours of honeycombe, butterscotch, yeast lees and hazelnut, with some cinnamon and spice on the back palate. Excellent weight and concentration. Clean dry finish with long aftertaste of honeycombe, cinnamon and spice.
Cellar 3-4 years (2012-2013)
14.0% Alc