2020 TarraWarra Reserve Chardonnay, Yarra Valley

From 38yo estate-grown fruit, whole-bunched pressed to French puncheons and barriques (25% new). No bâtonnage or mlf. A bright and medium-deep green gold. Aromas of yellow stone fruits, acacia, orange blossom and fresh vanillin bean are all present on the nose of this complex and powerful wine. The palate is rich and textured, yet equally refined and balanced. Finishes long and satisfying.

96 points Special Value Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

TarraWarra Reserve Chardonnay from the Yarra Valley is a refined and expressive white that reflects both the cool climate elegance of the region and the precision of winemaker Sarah Fagan. This flagship Chardonnay is sourced from the oldest and most select blocks on the TarraWarra estate, where the combination of elevation volcanic soils and careful vineyard management produce fruit of exceptional intensity and balance.

Sarah Fagan brings a deep understanding of the Yarra Valley to her work at TarraWarra. Her winemaking is focused on purity and texture with a strong respect for site and vintage. The fruit is handpicked and whole bunch pressed then fermented using wild yeasts in French oak barriques with around 25 percent new oak. The wine spends time on full lees with occasional stirring to build mouthfeel and complexity while maintaining vibrancy and drive. Partial malolactic fermentation is allowed depending on the season to preserve freshness and natural acid.

In the glass it opens with layered aromas of white peach lemon curd grilled almond and struck flint. The palate is powerful yet precise showing stone fruit citrus and savoury oak beautifully integrated with fine acidity and a long mineral finish. It is a Chardonnay that walks the line between richness and restraint with impeccable balance.

TarraWarra Reserve Chardonnay pairs beautifully with roast chicken lobster creamy polenta or aged Comté and has the structure to evolve gracefully in the cellar for up to a decade.