Chardonnay Pemberton, Cherubino 2022

The 2022 Pemberton Chardonnay is made in the Cherubino signature style: streamlined, glossy, opulent and encased in expensive oak. This is all good. The fruit from Pemberton has a concentrated focus on acid (juicy, mouthwatering) and fleshy stone fruits. This is like raw unbound power, and the flavor seems to stray to every available part of the palate. There are notes of smoked almonds, fresh ground nutmeg, tatami mat, lemongrass, yellow peach, red apple skins (Pink Lady, sweet, crisp) and bread crust. It is obvious and powerful. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.