2023 Carillion Crystals Chardonnay, Orange

Minerally, with jasmine tea and lemon zested over white mould cheese. There are coils of apple and fresh ginger spice. Some nutmeg and vanilla sugar lovingly whipped into a pulpy wine with zippy acidity and some nougatine creaminess. A peach fuzz on the finish. This is everything you are asking for in well-balanced cool-climate chardonnay.

95 points Special Value Shanteh Wale winecompanion.com.au

Carillion Crystals Chardonnay from Orange is an elegant cool-climate white wine that highlights the unique character of this elevated wine region. Grown at high altitudes on ancient volcanic soils, this Chardonnay benefits from the cooler conditions of Orange, which promote vibrant acidity and pure fruit expression. Carillion’s winemaking philosophy is rooted in minimal intervention, allowing the vineyard’s terroir to take center stage. The Crystals label focuses on wines with precision, complexity, and an unmistakable sense of place.

Pale gold in color, Carillion Crystals Chardonnay opens with aromas of citrus blossom, white peach, and green apple, layered with hints of flint and toasted nuts. The palate is finely textured, offering a balance between fresh stone fruit and zesty lemon curd, with a subtle creaminess from lees aging. The wine’s natural acidity provides structure and drive, while a fine mineral thread runs through to the long, clean finish with lingering notes of citrus and hazelnut.

This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with seared scallops, grilled lobster, and roast chicken with herbs. Its combination of freshness and texture also makes it an excellent companion for creamy pasta dishes, truffle risotto, and soft cheeses like Brie or Comté. While enjoyable now for its vibrant fruit, it has the potential to evolve and gain further complexity over the next 5–8 years.

Carillion’s focus on showcasing the diversity of New South Wales’ wine regions has earned the winery widespread recognition, with Crystals Chardonnay standing out as a serious yet approachable example of cool-climate Australian Chardonnay.