Derek Barnett, winemaker for Lailey, made a name for himself making Chardonnay for a little known winery (at the time) called Southbrook. Today, after about 17 years experience and plenty of creative, diverse and excellent Chards under his belt he still relishes making his oaked Chardonnays. They offer up such pleasure for the palate and, for those with some patience, cellar-worthiness. This ’06 version made from 100% of the estates “older vines” (planted between 1978 and 1982) has an amazing buttery-vanilla-nutty nose at first sniff – then subsequent whiffs will have you sensing toffee / butterscotch and then the piece-de-resistence: caramel apple (oh goodie!). In the mouth, there’s plenty to be thrilled about: buttery butterscotch, vanilla, good acidity and a repeating yum-factor: at first I perceived a medium length finish and the moment I made mention of it in my notes the flavours came roaring back again and again and again … it truly is a giving wine, it’s like Christmas for your mouth. Price: $25.00