The Tin Soldier - Chardonnay 2007

Probably one of the best wines to have come out Hunter Valley in recent times. 2007 is outstanding, 2008 is really good. James Halliday gave 2007 a score of 94/100 - nothing else needs to be said about this wine.

Downside, not much available out there. You wouldn't find any of this stuff in the bottleshops (that's what Mark Hussy from the winery told me) and it being a boutique winery, not many bars would be stocking it.

As far as the flavours go, very well balanced, very subtle. Fruit and spice are the obvious flavours that leap out of the glass.

Peter Lehmann Chardonnay

Tried the Peter Lehmann Chardonnay the other day.

Before I say something, anything about it, the price is right. You can get it for around 9-11 dollars at any wine shop. Dan's could be cheaper. Around $15-$20 in the wine bars around Sydney.

The taste is nothing special. Its not bad, for sure. It has a slight heaviness to it, you feel it more if you're not having food with it. With grilled fish, or cheese, it could be quite refreshing - the temperature, I'd suggest, should be around 7-8 C, which is slightly less than how I usually like whites.

A good choice if you're having a BBQ with friends. Bad Choice for a romantic, impress-her-all-you-can date.