2023 Pepper Tree Four Clones Limited Release Chardonnay, Orange

Matured for 10 months in French oak puncheons. A tropical island holiday awaits, with jackfruit, mango skin, dry sand and pineapple core. A wealth of orange oil and creamy pandan oak richness. Spice follows with nutmeg and cinnamon and is well weighted by tropical fruit concentration. Excellent value; fit for chardonnay lovers the world over.

92 points Shanteh Wale winecompanion.com.au

Pepper Tree’s Four Clones Limited Release Chardonnay from Orange is a fascinating deep-dive into clone diversity, elevation and precision winemaking. Sourced from the high-altitude vines of Orange in New South Wales, this wine brings together four Burgundian Chardonnay clones grown in the region’s ancient volcanic soils, at elevations around 900 metres. That altitude gives the wine its signature freshness, while the clonal mix builds layers of texture, flavour and aromatic nuance.

Winemaker Gwyn Olsen and the Pepper Tree team have crafted this as a small-batch release to showcase the synergy of site and selection. The clones contribute different characters: one brings citrus zip, another texture, another floral lift, and one that pushes stone fruit and spice. It’s whole-bunch pressed, wild fermented, and aged in fine French oak (mostly older), giving it complexity without ever losing its line and energy.

The palate is beautifully structured and bright, with white peach, Meyer lemon, cashew and flinty mineral drive. A touch of struck match adds intrigue, while the finish is long, saline and elegant. It’s a Chardonnay with both tension and generosity, speaking clearly of cool-climate Orange and thoughtful winemaking.

This wine has excellent food pairing range. Try it with grilled swordfish, chicken with tarragon and lemon, or pumpkin and sage ravioli. Cellar confidently for 5 to 8 years to watch those layers knit together even further.