Chardonnay, Kutch 2015

This magnificent Chardonnay comes from Jamie Kutch, a former stock trader who moved to California to make wine in 2005. The low (12.5%) alcohol and crystalline lemon fruit immediately demonstrate that this is very much in the new wave of American producers focused on purity, freshness and balance. Notes of struck flint and white peach with just a hint of toastiness on the nose make this incredibly enticing. The palate is saline and taut, with brisk acidity lining the palate and bringing intense focus and freshness. This is very youthful and mineral, with juicy fresh citrus to the fore. The finish is, pure, saline and slightly smoky, and very long. A wonderful wine exhibiting superb cool climate tension that is loved by us at Farr.

Very fine, lemony and assertive on the nose, with delicate matchstick notes from nice reduction. The palate is linear and precise with really tight, lean, but full flavoured lemon notes. It’s beautifully taut and expressive with keen acidity that’s struggling a bit to integrate now, but which will in time. This is so pristine and taut and offers lots of promise for the future, but it’s also edgy and enjoyable now if you like this reductive style. I love it.