93POINTS
17¼/20
Mason Vineyard L'avenir Chardonnay 2022
Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, CanadaWhen I see a chardonnay at 12.3% alcohol, I’m already on board. Add in Clone 76, and a wild ferment that only uses oak, and the excitement builds. In 2022 (a vintage closer to the very fine 2020 than 2021) this aged for 17 months in mainly neutral oak along with second and third-fill barrels, and the result is stunning. The mixture of vibrancy, purity, and acidity with a creamy texture is never easy to achieve, but when it happens, it is magic. Pear and white peaches with a touch of nutty, mineral notes all speak to the balance of this barley lean chardonnay that will age effortlessly into 2029 and beyond. First class and a delight to drink.Tasted: 24 July 2024Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:ON | $45.00 | 750ml | winery direct/online |
Grape: Chardonnay