Woop Woop Chardonnay 2006

Unseasoned with oak, Chardonnay becomes more subtle and fruit forward in the nose, but then you really taste and feel the pure fruit intensity, and the finish is more refreshing.  What is really refreshing is when you find an unwooded Chardonnay that doesn't cost more than oaked ones.  After all, with oak barrels at $800+ each, one expects a discount for bypassing the wood.

Woop Woop* Chardonnay is a project between Penny’s Hill winemaker Ben Riggs and owner Tony Parkinson, imported by Seattle-based Epicurean.  The 100% Chardonnay fruit was sourced from Swan Hill, Victoria and McLaren Vale in south eastern Australia.  Yields this vintage were moderately light, at under 5 tons/acre.

Tasting Notes: Color: Light straw.  Aromas: Pear, apple and hints of gooseberry, lime and orange.  The mouthfeel is light-bodied with nice round citrusy fruity flavors which are intensely refreshing in the tart finish.

Outstanding value ($10).  Closure: Screw cap.  Alcohol content: 13%.

Winewaves reviewed the 2005 vintage of Woop Woop Chardonnay.

*Woop Woop is Australian slang for "the middle of nowhere".