2022 Swinging Bridge Caldwell Lane Chardonnay, Orange

This has seen time in 20% new hogsheads and puncheons with the rest varying, up to 5 years of age, in barrel for seven months with occasional stirring. Meyer lemon, pine lime sherbert, talc and crushed chalk. A hint of sparkler flint and raw pinenut. The wine flourishes on the palate with oyster brine salinity and zeal. A savoury pecorino cheese rind and lemon yoghurt creaminess. Savoury and seamless.

96 points Shanteh Wale winecompanion.com.au August 2023

Halliday's Top 100 2024

Swinging Bridge Caldwell Lane Chardonnay from Orange is a beautifully crafted wine that showcases the unique attributes of this cool-climate region. Orange, with its high-altitude vineyards and cool, dry climate, is quickly becoming one of Australia’s premier regions for producing fresh, elegant, and complex white wines. Swinging Bridge, a family-owned winery with a focus on sustainable farming and minimal intervention, has created a Chardonnay that perfectly reflects the terroir of Orange and the winemaker's dedication to quality.

The Chardonnay grapes for the Caldwell Lane expression are sourced from the estate’s Caldwell Lane vineyard, which benefits from the region’s cool nights and warm days. These conditions allow the grapes to ripen slowly, preserving their natural acidity while developing the rich, ripe fruit flavors that make Chardonnay so appealing. The winemaking team at Swinging Bridge uses traditional techniques, fermenting the wine in French oak barrels and allowing for partial malolactic fermentation. This adds complexity, texture, and a subtle creaminess without overpowering the fruit.

In the glass, Swinging Bridge Caldwell Lane Chardonnay has a pale gold color with a greenish hue, reflecting its youthful and vibrant character. The nose is inviting and aromatic, with bright citrus notes of lemon, lime, and grapefruit, along with ripe stone fruit aromas of peach and nectarine. Subtle oak influence adds layers of vanilla, toasted almond, and a touch of brioche, creating a balanced and nuanced bouquet.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a creamy texture, balanced by crisp acidity. The citrus and stone fruit flavors are fresh and vibrant, with lemon, lime, and peach leading the way. The oak aging imparts a lovely richness, with flavors of vanilla, toasted almond, and a slight nuttiness that adds depth without overshadowing the fruit. The wine’s acidity ensures a refreshing finish, with lingering citrus and mineral notes that leave a clean and satisfying aftertaste.

Swinging Bridge Caldwell Lane Chardonnay is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its balance of fruit, acidity, and oak makes it an excellent match for seafood, such as grilled fish, lobster, or prawns. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, creamy pastas, risottos, and dishes with rich, buttery sauces. For a more casual pairing, it complements soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese.