Grosset Piccadilly Chardonnay 2005
While this is very much in the style of the Grosset Piccadilly Chardonnays, the 2005 shows the benefit of an outstanding vintage in the Adelaide Hills. As recent vintages have shown, there is superb integration of fruit and gentle cedary oak, in this case, giving the wine a fragrant lift. The palate shows the restraint and characteristic of the Piccadilly early in its life with pure white peach, nectarine and grapefruit flavours (as well as a hint of ripe melon and cashew nuts). It has been given a degree of complexity by minerally, savoury characters that linger.
The structure is typically tight and very fine, the texture creamy and viscous, and there is a youthful power and vibrance, almost an exuberance, that gives the wine impeccable balance. The 2005 Piccadilly Chardonnay has an approachability that few examples of the wine have. It will still improve significantly with a year or two in the cellar when it will show greater complexity and a more overt flavour profile. Those who like more developed chardonnay can enjoy the wine at its peak (at about five years of age) although, well cellared, it will live for longer.
The Grosset Piccadilly 2005 was hand picked, barrel fermented in French barriques and then left to mature in those barrels for nearly twelve months, followed by a further twelve months in bottle before release.
Reviews
James Halliday ‘Australian Wine Companion’ 2008 Edition
A glorious, though finely framed, bouquet; perfectly balanced and seamless palate with melon, nectarine and grapefruit plus a touch of cashew. Screwcap. 14% alcohol. Drink to 2015. 95 points
Matthew Jukes ‘Best 100 Australian Wines for 2007’
2005 Grosset Piccadilly Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills, South Australia
With pretty brave levels of classy French oak, this is as wild a wine as Jeff dares to make one suspects. The result is a Premier Cru rivalling wine that is not afraid of intensity, structure and poise. This is a craftsman’s wine that nearly didn’t work. Like all great pieces of art, it is these characteristics that really catch the eye and impress.
Ralph Kyte-Powell ‘The Age’ Epicure Wine Style Autumn 2007
Jeff Grosset is one of Australia’s most thoughtful and skilled winemakers. His 2005 Adelaide Hills Chardonnay…elaborate but subtle nose of candied white peaches, nutty notes and background spicy oak. Finesse is the keyword for the palate – it shows spring-like clarity and a quiet intensity that charms you as it slips across your palate. It needs time to evolve. Ageing: Drink over four years. Food ideas: Cheesy pasta.
