2023 BK Wines Swaby Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills

BK Wines Swaby Chardonnay from Adelaide Hills is an exceptional single-vineyard wine that showcases the region’s cool-climate elegance and Brendan Keys’ minimalist, natural winemaking style. Renowned for his bold and boundary-pushing approach, Brendan focuses on small-batch wines that express a deep connection to site and season. Swaby is sourced from a premium vineyard in the Piccadilly Valley, one of the most prized sub-regions of Adelaide Hills, known for its cooler temperatures and ideal conditions for growing high-quality Chardonnay.

Pale gold with a brilliant sheen, the wine opens with aromas of white peach, lemon curd, and citrus blossom, intertwined with flinty notes, crushed rock, and a subtle touch of toasted hazelnut. On the palate, it’s richly textured yet vibrant, delivering flavors of ripe stone fruit, grapefruit, and brioche. A fine acid backbone keeps the wine precise and fresh, while time on lees contributes complexity and a creamy mouthfeel. The finish is long, saline, and slightly savory, leaving hints of almond and citrus peel.

Swaby pairs beautifully with seared salmon, roast chicken, and truffle-infused risotto. Its layered complexity also makes it an excellent match for grilled lobster, buttery pasta dishes, and hard cheeses like aged Comté. While approachable now, it will continue to evolve for 8–10 years, gaining further depth and nuance.

BK Wines has developed a cult following for its innovative wines, and Swaby stands as a flagship Chardonnay, consistently praised for its precision, texture, and unmistakable sense of place.