Hidden Bench has a new winemaker, or at least she was new in 2010 (Marlize Byers) – this was her first full vintage with Hidden Bench and she’s done a lovely job with this Chardonnay made from 12-35 year old vines and aged in 20% new French oak. The wine is just layered with flavour from nose to back of the throat and everywhere in between: lime meringue and peach are most prominent; the palate feels fat and mouth-filling but with nice balancing acidity … plus there’s just a super finish that hangs out to party. Price: $32.00 – Rating: ****+