Topiary Chardonnay, Franschhoek 2015 6x75cl

90+ Points, Stephen Tanzer, 2018-2023 Vinous (this is the project of Chassagne-Montrachet producer Philippe Colin; did its malolactic fermentation and spent one year in barrels, 25% new): Medium yellow. Ripe stone fruits, mandarin orange, hazelnut, flowers and a strong element of exotic spice oils (cinnamon red hots?) on the nose. Then surprisingly dry, even bracing, on the palate, but very dominated by its spicy oak character (Colin uses 450-liter Rousseau Piano oak barrels). I find that the oak element is currently blocking the fruit, but this Chardonnay boasts lovely leesy complexity, energy and definition.Review Date: 01 May 17