Fletcher Wines C24 - Chardonnay 2024

David Fletcher grew up an engineer’s son and it was always thought he would follow in his father’s footsteps. Though, at a very young age, David became enamored by the wines that graced his dining room table growing up. A four-year enology degree at Adelaide University was followed by seasonal work in Burgundy, then an assistant winemaker’s gig at a Yarra Valley estate that specialized in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Nevertheless, it was a seminar run by Italian winemakers that introduced David to the varietal that changed his life forever… Nebbiolo. In 2007, David moved to the Langhe to work a harvest at Ceretto, one of Barbaresco’s most esteemed producers. A few years of experience there, along with some good fortune and opportunity, and David and his wife Eleanor purchased Barbaresco’s abandoned rail station, subsequently transforming it into their home and winery. Today, David’s output is small — approximately 25,000 bottles a year total — but his wines are extraordinary, exhibiting an astonishing sense of place that you would only expect from a native of Piedmont.

David’s 2024 Langhe Chardonnay — sourced from the Cars Cru in Barbaresco — pours a shimmering pale gold with the faintest light green reflection. On the nose, this Chardonnay offers enchanting aromas of citrus-kissed white orchard and tropical fruits caressed with a delicate note of fresh fennel. The medium-bodied palate displays ripe flavors of Anjou pear, honeydew and white peach supported beautifully with a zingy acidity and a seamless integration of oak. This wine possesses wonderful volume on the mid-palate leading to an exquisitely long finish that showcases its enduring depth and complexity. Absolutely phenomenal!