The Federalist Chardonnay 2023

A wine that captures what Californian Chardonnay is all about. Underscored by the big oak backbone the fleshy fruit flavours are ripe and zesty and swathed in a cloak of vanilla, cloves and cinnamon, The finish is lingering, long and smooth and if you're a connoisseur of skilful barrel ageing this is just asking for you to try it.

While we'd generally steer away from anything too spicy, pork and poultry, especially with creamy sauces, work a treat as does most white fish and seafood.

Based in California's Napa Valley Federalist Vineyards set out to make wines distinctly American in character which means bold and masterful. But that's not to say they're overly 'in your face'. There's a level of refinement that makes for very satisfying drinking.