The 2006 MadFish Chardonnay is a classic exponent of the ‘modern’ style of barrel fermented Chardonnay: the wine structure is lighter and fresher with cleaner, crisper mouthfeel than the Chardonnays of earlier years. A combination of the cool year and more judicious use of complimentary oak have produced a wine of style and balance. The palate is crisp and bright with an initial burst of honeydew melon and citrus fruit balanced by a more textural mid-palate with cashew barrel fermentation characters. The finish is a typical of 2006 whites: long clean grapefruit flavours with crystalline acidity. This is a very classy and youthful wine with an elegance that will complement the fresh flavours of today’s cuisine.