Curly Flat Chardonnay 2008 – “young, complex, will age for many years”

Curly Flat Chardonnay 2008 comes from a very hot vintage.  But despite this the alcohol has remained moderate – 12.8% for the Chardonnay.   Winemaker Phil Morahan puts it down to his biodynamic practices and the vines self regulating.   Here’s what he has to say about this top notch Chardonnay: “Vibrant, bright, light gold with hints of green straw. Complex bouquet – shows both the citrus characters of ripe, blood orange/pink grapefruit, together with some slightly herbal, cashew/nutty, mealy and lees characters,  with subtle oak residing in the background. Complexity shows further layers with slight briny/oyster shell and struck match tones. A heady bouquet that is complex and powerful!  Solid weight, yet only 12.8%, with generous sweet fruit up front, together with lots of natural acidity. This grows along the palate line; textured mouth feel; solid acidity, balanced with the ample juicy primary fruit. Seamless line and length, already exhibiting a long finish.   As with prior Curly Flat Chardonnays, defined by its origins  –  young but complex, layered, textured; solid structure, yet it has relatively low alcohol (12.8%) It will build further complexity with time in bottle.   Generous fruit allows for early drinking, but will age for many years. Probably peaking about 2016. “