Is 19 Crimes Chardonnay Buttery?

Answered by Vince Keith

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that 19 Crimes South Australia Hard Chardonnay White does indeed have a buttery taste. The wine is known for its full-bodied nature, which is characterized by the presence of ripe stone fruit flavors. These flavors are balanced by a high acidity, which adds a refreshing touch to the overall taste profile.

One of the key elements that contribute to the buttery taste of this Chardonnay is the toasty oak notes. Oak aging is a common technique used in winemaking to impart flavors and aromas to the wine. In the case of 19 Crimes Chardonnay, the toasty oak adds a rich and creamy texture to the wine, reminiscent of butter.

In addition to the oak influence, this Chardonnay also exhibits hints of honey and spice. These elements further enhance the overall flavor profile and contribute to the buttery taste. The honey notes add a touch of sweetness, while the spice hints add complexity and depth.

The finish of the 19 Crimes Chardonnay is where the creamy notes of butterscotch and vanilla come into play. These flavors linger on the palate and provide a smooth and indulgent finish. The combination of the ripe stone fruit flavors, toasty oak, honey, and spice, along with the creamy notes of butterscotch and vanilla, creates a well-rounded and satisfying buttery taste experience.

It's important to note that the term “buttery” is often used to describe Chardonnays that have undergone malolactic fermentation. This fermentation process converts the wine's sharp malic acid into softer lactic acid, resulting in a creamy and buttery texture. While it is not explicitly mentioned whether 19 Crimes Chardonnay has undergone malolactic fermentation, the presence of the creamy notes and buttery taste suggests that it may have gone through this process.

In my personal experience, I have found that 19 Crimes Chardonnay pairs well with various dishes. Its buttery nature complements foods like roasted chicken, creamy pasta dishes, and buttery seafood, enhancing the overall dining experience.

19 Crimes South Australia Hard Chardonnay can be described as a buttery Chardonnay, thanks to its ripe stone fruit flavors, toasty oak influence, honey and spice hints, and creamy notes of butterscotch and vanilla. It is a full-bodied wine that offers a rich and indulgent taste experience.