d'Arenberg The Witches Berry McLaren Vale Chardonnay 2021

Witches Berry (aka Belladonna) is a vineyard weed that was famously used to make women’s eyes appear darker and larger. “Nothing, they say, succeeds like success. Few operations in Australia fit this dictum better than d’Arenberg, which has kept its almost 100-year-old heritage while moving into the 21st century with flair and elan...” (Halliday). “An engaging, impeccably crafted warm-climate chardonnay, managing a sluice of tension as much as generosity of flavour. Honeydew melon, white peach, fig and a core of nougat teem across a crisp, mid-weighted frame. The oak, nestled nicely. The acidity, a bit perky but them’s the breaks... 91pts” (Halliday Wine Companion, Ned Goodwin, MW).