2023 Clyde Park Single Block B3 Chardonnay, Geelong

From a vineyard planted in '95 with clone P58 (rows 69 to 85). 60% new oak. Bright green gold. Concentrated and intense with its bouquet of yellow peach, confit lemon and grilled nuts. A rich but very balanced mouthful of wine, finishing nutty, orange pithy and very long. It's terrific now and will still be so six to eight years from now.

96 points Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

From the cool, elevated slopes of the Moorabool Valley in Geelong comes a Chardonnay that showcases true single block precision. Clyde Park was established in the 1970s and is one of Geelong’s most respected estates, known for low yielding vineyards and meticulous site selection. The Single Block B3 Chardonnay is sourced from a specific parcel planted on volcanic and loam soils, where cool maritime breezes and long growing seasons allow slow ripening and the development of fine acidity. This block selection highlights the estate’s commitment to expressing individual vineyard character rather than blending for uniformity.

Pale straw with a bright green edge, the aromatics are layered and refined. White peach, nectarine and lemon zest unfold alongside grapefruit pith, roasted cashew and a subtle flinty complexity. There is a mineral tension that reflects both the Moorabool Valley’s volcanic soils and the cool climate.

On the palate it is medium to full bodied yet beautifully composed, combining stone fruit generosity with vibrant natural acidity. Citrus and orchard fruit glide across a creamy, textural mid palate shaped by thoughtful lees work and well integrated oak. The finish is long, focused and mineral driven, lingering with lemon curd and toasted almond notes. It is a powerful yet poised expression of Geelong Chardonnay.

Pair with grilled scallops, roast chicken with thyme, lobster with herb butter or creamy mushroom risotto. While impressive now for its balance and detail, it will cellar confidently for ten to fifteen years, developing nutty, honeyed complexity and deeper savoury layers.