I have reviewed the Fermoy Estate Reserve Chardonnay previously, but since I have a few bottles stashed away, I get to revisit this wine from time to time. Different occasions sometimes reveal different flavours and notes, there is also the cellaring complexity that improves fine wine.

So, on Australia Day 2024, a bottle of 2018 Fermoy Reserve chardonnay was opened. These days, there is no need to pop the cork, a simple screw cap twist is all that is needed. Ok, so what did we taste? The wine was crisp, yes there was subtle oak flavours but the oak did not overpower this wine. The current trend is for lighter more refined oak on chardonnay, I must admit I do enjoy old style chardonnay so I have had to readjust my tastes.

The malolactic fermentation process resulted in subtle lees, described as subtle oak char with gunsmoke flavours. The wine is refreshed by grapefruit, fig and nectarine. They also describe toasty flavours and hints of wood smoke. Whilst this description is far more advanced than mine, I like to review tasting notes so I can try to pick the flavours without being overly influenced. Ultimately, you know what you like and you may be willing to pay a premium for what you would consider an above average bottle of wine, that is where I am right now, I am happy to pay a premium for the Fermoy Estate Reserve Chardonnay.