2022 Crittenden Zumma Chardonnay, Mornington Peninsula

There is energy and life evident from the moment you engage with the perfumes on the nose. The fruit was hand-picked and then whole bunch pressed to a combination of one and two-year-old French barriques with wild yeast fermentation. Most went through malolactic fermentation bringing a textural feel while retaining the crisp savoury acid. The palate is finely balanced with a slightly saline savouriness that is sustained and long. Impressive chardonnay from old vines at Mornington.

95 points Ray Jordan winepilot.com

Opens with freshly grated lemon, white peach and hints of toast. Open and expressive offering ripe white peach, yoghurt and a creamy mouth-filling palate. Well balanced, finishing long with hints of toast and nougat.

95 points Andrea Pritzker winepilot.com

The Crittenden Wines seem to be rising and rising through recent releases, and evidence in this wine too. Concentrated, elegant, sleek and refined, a wine of judicious seasoning of sweet spice, laid back cashew nut savouriness, distinct, razor cut stone fruit characters and a dash of lemon-lime freshness. In the core, a briny mineral vein that persists long after each sip. Classy.

95 points Mike Bennie WBM

Crittenden Zumma Chardonnay from the Mornington Peninsula is a beautifully balanced, expressive wine that showcases the unique cool-climate conditions of one of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions. Known for its pristine vineyards and maritime climate, the Mornington Peninsula produces wines with great freshness, complexity, and elegance, and Crittenden Estate, led by winemaker Rollo Crittenden, has been at the forefront of this movement. The Zumma Chardonnay is a perfect example of the winery’s ability to craft wines that are both modern and reflective of the terroir.

The Zumma Chardonnay is sourced from the estate’s best vineyard sites on the Mornington Peninsula, where the cool, ocean-influenced climate slows ripening and helps the grapes retain their natural acidity while developing bright, pure fruit flavors. Rollo’s hands-off winemaking approach ensures the wine reflects the vineyard’s character with minimal intervention, allowing the natural qualities of the Chardonnay grape to shine. The wine undergoes fermentation in French oak barrels, with a small portion of the wine undergoing malolactic fermentation to add richness and texture while preserving freshness.

In the glass, Crittenden Zumma Chardonnay has a bright, pale gold color with greenish hues, reflecting its youth and freshness. The nose is vibrant and expressive, offering aromas of citrus, particularly lemon and lime, alongside ripe stone fruits like peach and nectarine. There are also subtle oak influences, with notes of vanilla, almond, and a hint of brioche, adding complexity to the aromatic profile.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a smooth, creamy texture that is balanced by refreshing acidity. The citrus and stone fruit flavors are fresh and lively, with lemon, lime, and peach at the forefront. The wine’s oak influence is subtle but adds a layer of depth, with a touch of vanilla and nutty characters. The finish is clean and crisp, with lingering citrus and a slight mineral note that adds to the wine’s overall elegance and finesse.

Crittenden Zumma Chardonnay is a versatile wine that pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes. Its bright acidity and textured mouthfeel make it an excellent match for seafood, such as grilled fish, prawns, or oysters. It also pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, creamy pastas, or dishes like mushroom risotto, as well as soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese. This Chardonnay is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with a delicious meal.