Holm Oak The Wizard Chardonnay

The Real Review "Bright, light yellow/straw colour with a discreet but smoky toasty bouquet, the palate rich and full, rounded and smooth textured, with terrific depth and fleshiness. Concentrated flavour with elegance and effortless balance. Excellent now, but cellar it to watch it build more complexity. Superb chardonnay" - 95/100 point

QWINE "Composed and classy, I love this Chardonnay's swagger as it confidently strides out. The Wizard is Holm Oak's flagship white and it nails the brief. White-fleshed stonefruit leads supported by cashew and nougat notes that immediately add complexity. Lemon juice, canned pineapple and brioche weave effortlessly through the palate, while vanilla cream and caramel drops contribute a creamy richness without tipping the balance. The influence of malolactic fermentation (65%) and French oak (65% new) is thoughtfully handled, adding texture and depth rather than dominating the fruit. Rather than chasing the chiselled, high-acid style of many modern Chardonnays, this builds a beautifully rounded palate shape that feels complete and oozes satisfaction. A grapefruit tang on the finish elevates the finish, keeping everything fresh and focused. " - 95/100 point

Winepilot "This is from a warmer vintage than we often see from Tasmania and the wine is perhaps a little fuller in flavour than usual because of it. Fermentation was with native yeasts in barrel. 65% of the wine then underwent malolactic fermentation. Maturation was in French oak, 65% of which was new. The team use a range of coopers to enhance complexity. Shimmering lemon/gold, there is good intensity and focus here. On the nose, we have notes of citrus, florals, cashews, ginger, nectarines, a touch of oatmeal and orange rinds. A lovely, creamy texture is evident, and the wine has both balance and focus. Great length here. This is a really classy Chardonnay and has room to improve even further. Good intensity of flavour is evident throughout. " - 95/100 point