Yellow gold in color. Hints of tropical fruit mingle with aromas of lemon zest and bananas on the nose leading to understated flavors of ripe pear and fresh pineapple that provide the wine's initial impression. Broadly textured on the palate the finish tightens up towards a compact profile with minerals comprising an underlying note. The tightly wound fruit flavors have sucked up any oak influence and the acidity on the finish leaves a subtle impression. A few years in the cellar will allow this wine to gain some richness and texture on the backpalate.

In 1971 Vat 47 was the first commercial Chardonnay produced in Australia. Coming mainly from the Short Flat and HVD vineyards the 2006 Vat 47 Chardonnay is barrel fermented in 1/3 new oak without any MLF and employing a little batonnage. It gives intense aromas of toasted tropical notes with a core of pineapple poached apricots and warm grapefruit. Medium-bodied it is very crisp and fresh with just a touch of silky richness. Long finish. Drink now to 2016. -Lisa Perrotti-Brown