2023 Savaterre Chardonnay, Beechworth

Limit 3 Bottles per customer

Bright medium-light yellow colour; aromas of matchstick/gunflint reduction overlying grapefruit/citrus and biscuit nuances. In the mouth, very intense flavours of tightly focused but generously proportioned citrus/grapefruit and smoked charcuterie—impressively deep and very long-lasting. A great chardonnay of terrific refinement and formidable power. 16 Feb 2025 Drink 2025–2038

98 points Huon Hooke therealreview.com

A double wow kind of chardonnay, such is the level of deep concentration and the purity of flavour and delivery. Shows a sophisticated side, complex in construction and taste, led by white peach, nectarine, grapefruit pith and peel, spice and a savoury almond influence that lifts both aromatically and flavour-wise. Walks, as ever, a fine line between generosity and fineness, the latter winning the day with some scintillating tangy acid drive in place. And the best part? This still has a long, long journey ahead.

97 points Jeni Port winecompanion.com.au

Savaterre Chardonnay from Beechworth delivers serious pedigree and precision, offering a compelling alternative to its legendary neighbour Giaconda—but at a fraction of the price. It’s rich yet refined, powerful yet restrained, and absolutely packed with character. This is Australian Chardonnay with a Burgundian soul and an unmistakable Beechworth accent.

Founded by Keppell Smith in the late 1990s, Savaterre has become one of the quiet cult names in Australian Chardonnay. The vineyard sits high in the foothills of the Victorian Alps, where ancient granitic soils and a cool continental climate create ideal conditions for long, slow ripening. This combination yields fruit with deep concentration, natural acidity, and a mineral core that runs straight through the wine.

Keppell’s winemaking is hands-on and old-world in spirit. Everything is handpicked and whole bunch pressed, then wild fermented in high-quality French oak barriques. The wine spends time on lees with bâtonnage to build texture and complexity, followed by extended ageing to harmonise all the elements before bottling unfined and unfiltered.

In the glass, Savaterre Chardonnay opens with aromas of white peach, struck match, toasted cashew, and flint. The palate is layered and intense with ripe stone fruit, citrus curd, grilled nuts, and savoury oak seamlessly integrated. There’s richness and generosity, but also tension, drive, and a long mineral finish that suggests serious ageing potential.

This is a Chardonnay that punches well above its price tag. For lovers of Giaconda, Domaine Leflaive, or Kumeu River, Savaterre offers something equally profound—distinctively Australian, deeply complex, and incredibly good value.