A complex array of melon fig and cashew aromas is followed by a typically elegant and subtle palate with beautifully integrated oak. Petaluma had set a benchmark in Australian Chardonnay.

White gold in colour, limpid and brilliant with golden reflections. The first nose is toasted, grilled. After aeration, notes of ripe, slightly stewed, caramelized white-fleshed fruit appear. Seductively soft, sweet notes. Balanced in the mouth. We find these notes of fruit bringing fullness and roundness. A saline hint on the finish brings energy and length. The whole is structured with a noticeable, well-integrated woodiness.

If you want to try the benchmark in this style then look no further than Pierro. A clean and concentrated palate of lemon sherbet and gooseberry with a hint of oak influence. LTC stands for 'little touch of Chardonnay' which adds the right amount of palate weight and complexity.

A lovely and unusual Sauvignon Blanc from Hawkes Bay. It is barrel-fermented with a touch of Semillon and Sauvignon Gris. This wine has aromas of citrus blossom, pear and stone fruit and will evolve in the bottle for five years from harvest.

Defaix's Petit Chablis is drawn exclusively from Kimmeridgian-based soils unlike most Petit that generally comes from the low-lying sites on Portlandian limestone to the north of the commune. It's not necessarily the type of limestone but its location that makes the difference, with Defaix's small parcel being very well situated for this level, high on the slopes of Milly. With juicy apple and stone fruit aromas and flavours, pulpy texture, a vibrant, cool close, it's a wine "on the fruit" as the French would say. It reflects both the depth of the vintage and the cool soils of the region. Certified organic.'An expressive nose blends notes of iodine and sea breeze with those of a mix of yellow orchard fruit. There is good richness to the very round and seductively textured flavors that possess evident salinity on the delicious finale. This should drink well almost immediately.' - Allen Meadows.

Dopff Riesling Grand Cru Schoenenbourg has quite phenomenal citrus notes with a luscious and toasty caramelised honey element. Beautifully balanced acidity and immense length. Sheer indulgence!

Louis Latour's Saint-Véran is a wonderful example of the fresh Maconnais style displaying a light yellow colour and a bouquet of musk and toasty brioche aromas. On the palate, this bargain French Chardonnay is rich and powerful yet still with a lively, fresh finish. Going through complete malolactic fermentation in stainless steel vats, this southern Burgundian white is the perfect balance for brightness and complexity.