D’Arenberg The Olive Grove Chardonnay 2024

D'Arenberg makes The Olive Grove Chardonnay in McLaren Vale, in South Australia, a warm coastal region better known for bold reds. Sea breezes off the Gulf St Vincent and cool nights temper the heat, letting the Chardonnay ripen to generous fruit while holding enough acidity for balance. The soils here are varied, running from sandy loam to limestone and ironstone. The wine is aged for seven months in French oak barrels. Fermentation and maturation in barrel, with time on the lees, give the wine a rounder texture and a light layer of oak spice, while partial malolactic softening rounds the acidity and adds a creamy edge, all kept in check so the fruit stays in front. It pours bright gold, with a nose of ripe peach, nectarine, melon and citrus over a hint of vanilla and toasted nuts. The palate is dry and medium to full bodied, with ripe stone and tropical fruit, a creamy centre and enough freshness to carry a long finish. Serve at 10 to 12 degrees in a white-wine glass.