The 2009 Chardonnay has a moderate intensity of warm peach, melon, guava and toast aromas. Light to medium-bodied with high acidity, it’s just a little lacking in the mid-palate, finishing medium-long. Drink it now to 2013. Importer: Miller Squared Inc, Buffalo Grove, IL

(South Australia) Golden Delicious apples, butter and oak on the nose. Straightforward with fresh, soft apple fruit flavour. It is well balanced, delicate and fine. Alc: 13%.

Sidewood’s 2009 Chardonnay is a throwback to the sort of delicious, well-priced Chardonnays Australia used to be known for, but with a touch more class. It delivers a big blast of upfront melon and peach fruit nestled in toasted cashew-like oak, then finishes fresh and citrusy. Good value for drinking over the next 6–12 months.——J.C.(9/1/2010)—— 89