Dr Edge Barrique Chardonnay 2025

Deeper in colour, with a darker fruit profile. Classic aromas of spring jasmine, yellow peach, pawpaw, white peach, wood spice, roasted nuts and green apple. Richer and more textured on the palate, with greater heft and volume. Tighter, too, with the oak showing less oxidative influence than the amphora. Despite the greater width, there is also greater precision and structure, suggesting a wine built for ageing. Serious and very complete. More complexity will emerge with time, but the drive and length are already there for the long haul.

A blend of 60% Derwent Valley, 30% Tamar Valley and 10% East Coast chardonnay, nine months’ élevage in seasoned barriques and puncheons. Light straw with attractive aromas of white peach, apple, lemon and grapefruit. Hints of soft spice, clover blossom, nougat, light biscuity oak, sea spray and stone. Lemon flows in with more volume on the palate, as does a clotted-cream tone, all driven forward by a fine, briny acid cadence, finishing long and citrusy. 94 points – Dave Brookes, Halliday Wine Companion & Halliday Top 100