Tillie J Chardonnay 2023

The 2023 chardonnay from Tillie J is the best yet, and it’s not just because of a great vintage. There is less of the skin and bones approach, with more richness and mid palate succulence. White flowers, wood spice, fresh and preserved citrus, summer honey and pastry notes. Super intense palate, the flavours and textures magnified, delineated, yet woven and harmonised. Precise, the palate direct, in a serpentine kind of way. Very long in the mouth, driven by fruit, minerals and texture, so a long life ahead. Wonderful drinking. Waters Wine Co

From the Rising vineyard near St Andrews. Natural fermentation and maturation in French barriques (20% new), no mlf. An attractive bright green gold. This is both delicate and complex with its aromas of pear skin, pink grapefruit and subtle marine scents. There’s more mid-palate intensity than last year’s version, and I like the touch of grip on the balanced and long finale.95 points – Philip Rich, Halliday Wine Companion