Burnbrae 2011 Chardonnay

Mudgee vineyard Burnbrae - and winemaker  Frank Newman - are probably much better known for their red wines than their whites - but this is a ripping little wine for the price that more than held its own in a tasting bracket that also including big guns like Kooyong and Cherubino, both with considerably higher price tags. This is very modern wine, presumably made from fruit picked early, that looks like a cool-climate wine given its impressive elegance and linearity. Stone fruit aromas herald a palate with well-integrated oak, impressive freshness, restrained alcohol levels (12,8%) and an impressive balance between softness and some crisp acidity. Extremely easy to drink and great with roast pork and crackling. $20. www.burnbraewines.com.au