638. Shaw+Smith, M3 Chardonnay Adelaide Hills, 2009

£24; 13.5%

The benchmark for cool-climate, elegant Aussie Chardonnay. Pale gold colour. Quite pronounced, clean nose of limey citrus fruit, with ripe pear skin, some oatmealy notes from subtle oak and lees stirring. But above all, a definite ‘chalky’ aromatic note. Medium-bodied, medium alcohol and quite crisp acidity, coupled with more chalky pear-citrus flavours balance this out. Very subtle, soft-but-not-fat mouthfeel. Medium+ length. Very drinkable. Burgundian.