2002 MadFish Unwooded Chardonnay Tasting Notes

The 2001/2002 growing season was “interesting”. Windy and wet conditions in September made flowering difficult, particularly in the Great Southern and Margaret River. The subsequent fruit set produced significantly decreased yields in some parts of these regions resulting in wonderful fruit intensity. A cool, dry summer extended the ripening season resulting in ripe fruit flavours without high levels of alcohol in the finished wine.
This wine is unwooded, with fermentation occurring in stainless steel tanks. A low temperature, protective regime was adopted during its production, thereby preserving the finer characters of the cool climate Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc fruit.

In the glass, the wine appears crisp displaying fresh green tinges to the pale straw colour. The nose is typical of cool climate Chardonnay – melons and peach supported by finer grapefruit and mandarin aromas. The array of flavours and the fine structure of the palate are an indication of the quality of the vintage, with the lower alcohol in the wine bringing a delicate softness to the palate. Flavours of nectarine and rockmelon balance the initial tropical fruit, with the Sauvignon Blanc providing an elegant, fine citrus finish.

This wine is especially delicious when young but does have the acid balance required to reward cellaring for up to 3 years.