2022 Crittenden Kangerong Chardonnay, Mornington Peninsula

A mid-straw hue; more stone fruit than citrus this vintage, and the palate layered with nutty/creamed honey lees and a light spray of acidity. Some fruit/oak sweetness comes through, mingling with more savoury accents. Not overly complex but lovely nonetheless.

91 points Jane Faulkner winecompanion.com.au

A middling straw-coloured wine, this chardonnay has direct white floral and herbal aromas at first, then nutty and sea spray notes enter the equation. It's pleasant to smell, and the palate follows suit, medium in intensity with good balance of ripe and savoury flavours, moderate length and a light, dry finish. 22 Jan 2024 Drink 2024–2029

90 points Ralph Kyte-Powell therelareview.com

Crittenden Kangerong Chardonnay from the Mornington Peninsula is a stunning expression of the region’s cool climate and the winemaker's expertise. The Mornington Peninsula is known for producing some of Australia’s finest Chardonnays, thanks to its coastal influences, cooler temperatures, and diverse soils. Crittenden Estate, a family-owned winery led by Rollo Crittenden, has earned a reputation for creating wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir, and the Kangerong Chardonnay is a standout in their portfolio.

Sourced from the estate’s Kangerong vineyard, this Chardonnay benefits from the optimal growing conditions provided by the cool maritime climate. The vineyard’s elevated position and well-draining soils contribute to the purity and intensity of the fruit. Rollo's approach to winemaking is hands-off, allowing the vineyard and grape to express themselves naturally. The wine is fermented in a combination of French oak barrels and stainless steel, with a small portion undergoing malolactic fermentation to add texture and complexity.

In the glass, Crittenden Kangerong Chardonnay has a bright, pale gold color with a slight greenish hue, reflecting its fresh and youthful character. The nose is aromatic and expressive, with a beautiful balance of citrus fruits like lemon and lime, along with ripe stone fruits such as peach and nectarine. There are also subtle notes of toasted oak, vanilla, and almond, adding a layer of complexity, along with a faint minerality that speaks to the terroir of the Mornington Peninsula.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a smooth, creamy texture and vibrant acidity. The citrus and stone fruit flavors are fresh and lively, with lemon and peach leading the way. The oak influence adds a touch of richness, with hints of vanilla and almond, while the wine's natural acidity provides a refreshing backbone, ensuring that it is well-structured and balanced. The finish is long and elegant, with lingering citrus and minerality, leaving a clean, satisfying aftertaste.

Crittenden Kangerong Chardonnay is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Its bright acidity and fresh fruit flavors make it an excellent match for seafood, such as grilled fish, lobster, or oysters. It also pairs wonderfully with poultry dishes like roasted chicken or duck, as well as creamy pastas and soft cheeses like Brie and goat cheese. This Chardonnay is perfect for both casual sipping and more refined meals, offering both complexity and approachability.