Review of Tolpuddle Vineyard Chardonnay 2021

Winery Information: Tolpuddle Vineyard Coal River Valley, Tasmania Website: tolpuddlevineyard.com

Review: Tolpuddle Vineyard, nestled in Tasmania’s Coal River Valley, has once again proven its prowess with the release of its 2021 Chardonnay. Known for producing wines that reflect the cool climate and unique terroir of the region, Tolpuddle has crafted a Chardonnay that is both elegant and powerful. This wine is a true representation of the vineyard’s dedication to quality and meticulous attention to detail.

Visually, the 2021 Tolpuddle Vineyard Chardonnay is a beautiful pale gold, indicating its youth and vibrancy. The nose is immediately captivating, offering a bouquet of lemon peel, quince, and subtle floral notes. As the wine breathes, additional layers of complexity reveal themselves, including hints of toasted almonds, vanilla, and a touch of flint, which speaks to the wine’s minerality.

On the palate, this Chardonnay is a masterclass in balance. The initial flavors of lemon and green apple are bright and zesty, followed by a richer mid-palate of ripe stone fruits such as peach and nectarine. The wine’s texture is creamy yet retains a wonderful tension thanks to its crisp acidity. This balance is achieved through meticulous winemaking techniques, including hand-picking the grapes, whole bunch pressing, and fermentation in French oak barrels. The nine months of barrel aging, with gentle lees stirring, adds depth and a slight opulence to the wine without overpowering the fruit.

The finish of the 2021 Tolpuddle Vineyard Chardonnay is long and precise, with lingering notes of citrus and a hint of smokiness. This wine has excellent aging potential, promising to develop even more complexity over the next decade. Its structure and balance make it a versatile partner for food. It pairs exquisitely with rich seafood dishes such as lobster bisque or crab cakes. Creamy pasta dishes and poultry, especially with a buttery sauce, also complement this wine beautifully.

Tolpuddle Vineyard has consistently delivered outstanding wines, and the 2021 Chardonnay is no exception. It embodies the essence of the Coal River Valley and showcases the vineyard’s commitment to producing wines of distinction and character. This Chardonnay is a must-try for any serious wine enthusiast.

Score: 96.7/100