Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay 2017

Whole-bunch-pressed and aged nine months on partial malo in around 30% new oak, 40% of which is untoasted, the winemaking shows in the best way. Yellow plum, pastry cream and a faint waxy richness on the nose, with oak that flatters rather than dominates. Acidity sits a touch softer than typical Hemel-en-Aarde Chardonnay, giving the wine a rounder, more generous feel, while candied orange peel surfaces toward the close and lingers pleasantly. Good depth and a fine sense of balance. Drink now through 2023–2025, possibly beyond.