Avani - Issan Vineyard Chardonnay - 2021

From Gippsland, an excursion for this great Mornington Peninsula producer. Nutty, saline, succulent, appley. There’s four words I like in chardonnay in a row. So very savoury, almost elements of gentle Jura here, or at least a distinct lean into the nuttiness and non-fruit characters of the place. Briny finish is beautiful, upfront more fruit character but geez, doesn’t salted nuts get in the mix and a swish of nougat lends some personality. It feels potent but cool, lively and textural – a treat all up, and a fantastic and distinct expression. 96 Points - Mike Bennie, The Wine Front