Talbott Kali Hart Chardonnay review for the 4th July
To celebrate American Independence Day, here’s a fresh blast of California: Talbott Kali Hart 2018 Chardonnay, from the Santa Lucia Highlands, just inland of Monterey.
The fusion of oak and Chardonnay sometimes gets a bad press, thanks in large part to (mostly) cheaper wines that do it badly. It’s a shame, because when it’s done well, it’s sensational; a match made in heaven. Its creator, Dave Coventry is fond of saying that “there’s no such thing as over-oaked, just under-wined” and I think he has a point (read about his approach here).
Kali Hart (£20 on a Mix Six at Majestic Wine) offers a bountiful nose of lifted tropical fruit, with juicy pineapple, peach and ripe rocha pear. The oak is well integrated and the finish has a pleasing pastry note. It’s the perfect partner for grilled white fish in a beurre blanc sauce, thanks to its bright citrus acidity.