These wine reviews are from Patina Wines in the Orange region of New South Wales in Australia. The latitude here (approximately 33c) is moderated by altitude, and typically the wines present in cooler climate styles. I have tasted successful wines from this region, particularly among the whites.
2018 Reserve Chardonnay
The 2018 reserve chardonnay is savoury in intent and style. It has aromas of nuts and cedar with a saline overlay. The wine is full bodied on the palate, has high, tight acidity and long length on the finish. The alcohol is a modest 12.7 and the wine was fermented and aged (12 months) in new and old French oak. Its complexity is its finest attribute and the wine is suitable for current drinking and over the next 3 to 4 years. Rating: Good to Very Good (★★★☆).
2019 Chardonnay
The 2019 (non reserve) chardonnay is in the style of classic, modern, cool climate southern Australian chardonnay. As a reference point, there are similar styles made in the Yarra Valley, Geelong and the Adelaide Hills, although here the fruit tastes a little richer. The wine has aromas of mineral and smoke. The palate is dry, full bodied (its viscosity noticeable) and finishes with good length. Similar to the reserve chardonnay, the wine is fermented and raised in new and old French oak. The alcohol is 13.2. This well made wine is ready to drink now. Rating: Good to Very Good (★★★☆).
Source: Samples. Reviewed: December 2021.
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