Another cracking SB from the Out of Step crew — 8 years ago
Similar notes to 71 weeks ago. Made by David Bicknell who is regarded by many experts in Australia as Australia’s premier exponent of Chardonnay - particularly by Roscoe at Prince Wine Store where I buy most of my wine. This was my last 2012 Willowlake 864 and it was singing. Nose of almonds, marzipan and nougat amidst the barrel ferment characters. Still carrying a nice acid line even at 10 years. Great intensity and complexity. More classy restraint than being full bodied. A regular purchase for me. — 2 years ago
Prominent nose of bright red fruit with smoky stemminess. Jarring at first, but opens up to become very enticing. Bright red fruit palate with a great acid line and fine chalky tannins. Really enjoyable, and great with food. — 6 years ago
Light and tasty Pinot that's probably more in a French style than my usual steez but very nice and worth the hunt for it. Can't go wrong with a wine company named after a Minor Threat record! — 7 years ago
Lovely buttery Chardonnay — 8 years ago
Really delicious and drinkable. Had with a shrimp and bean stew. Did nicely with the smoke of paprika and acid from lemon — 4 years ago
2015 Open too soon — 6 years ago
Nice and easy to drink. — 8 years ago
Paul T- Huntington Beach
Another winner at $25.00
K&L notes as follows,
Oakridge's Single Vineyard wines are renowned for their stunning transparency, allowing the unique characteristics of each vintage to shine through. Among the Chardonnays produced by Oakridge in 2021, the Willowlake stood out as the undisputed star. Situated on a distinctive, 900 ft elevation site in the Upper Yarra, the Willowlake vineyard is planted on red, volcanic soils, wrapping a hilltop with a predominantly northern aspect. This unique location yields Oakridge's most robust expression of Yarra Valley Chardonnay. The aromatic profile of the Willowlake Chardonnay is incredibly striking, beginning with a foundation of stone fruit, complemented by notes of brioche and lemon. As the wine breathes in the glass, a subtle oak character emerges, revealing hints of baking spice. On the palate, a powerful surge of Meyer lemon takes center stage, accented by nuances of mandarin and saline. What makes this wine truly special is its weighted center, balanced by agile outer edges. This duality grounds the core fruit flavors while maintaining a lively dance around the palate's edges. The wine's acidity is perfectly balanced, making its presence known in the mid-palate and persisting through a long, umami-rich finish. This is classic Oakridge - a harmonious blend of power and finesse. The Willowlake Chardonnay is substantial and serious, yet simultaneously refreshing and vibrant. It stands as another testament to the exceptional value of Oakridge's Chardonnay. — 17 days ago