2023 Provenance Regional Series Chardonnay, Geelong

As with the '22s, this is the most immediately appealing of the three ’23 regional chardonnays from Provenance. Bright gold with green tinges. Concentrated and complex from the first whiff. Aromas of ripe orchard fruits, orange blossom and just the right amount of gun flint leads onto the mouth-filling, flavoursome and well-balanced palate. Finishes long and satisfying.

96 points Special Value Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

From cool maritime vineyards around Geelong, this Chardonnay shows the region’s signature balance of freshness, texture and subtle power. The Provenance Regional Series is designed to highlight place in a clear, approachable voice, drawing fruit from sites shaped by ocean air and a long, even growing season. These conditions build flavour slowly while preserving natural acidity, giving the wine energy and definition.

Winemaking aims for harmony rather than show. Gentle pressing, controlled fermentation and careful lees work add texture without masking the fruit. Oak is used sparingly, acting as a frame that supports citrus and stone fruit rather than dominating. The result is a Chardonnay that feels modern and precise, with a distinctly cool climate edge.

Pale gold in colour, the aromas open with white peach, nectarine and lemon zest, followed by cashew and a faint flinty note. The palate is medium bodied and bright, with stone fruit wrapped in crisp acidity and a soft creamy layer through the middle. Flavours of citrus and peach carry into a clean, mineral finish that lingers.

It pairs beautifully with grilled fish, roast chicken, pork and creamy seafood dishes. Drinking impressively now, it will hold comfortably for five to eight years, gaining nutty complexity while retaining freshness.

This is Geelong Chardonnay in an elegant everyday register, balanced, coastal and quietly confident.