2024 Best's Chardonnay, Great Western

The Best’s Chardonnay from Great Western is a finely crafted cool-climate white that reflects both the heritage of one of Victoria’s oldest family-owned wineries and the elegance of this historic region. Best’s, established in 1866, is a cornerstone of the Grampians wine story, with fifth-generation vigneron Ben Thomson and winemaker Justin Purser guiding the estate today. While Best’s is most famous for its Shiraz and ancient vineyards, their Chardonnay has become a quietly compelling expression of Great Western’s potential for refined whites.

The fruit is sourced from estate vineyards where a mix of decomposed granite, quartz and clay-loam soils contributes both minerality and depth. The cool climate, with its long growing season and fresh nights, allows Chardonnay to ripen slowly, building complexity while retaining vibrant acidity. Grapes are handpicked, whole-bunch pressed and fermented with wild yeasts in French oak barriques, a portion new, followed by time on lees with bâtonnage to add texture and savoury complexity.

In the glass, the wine is pale straw with green reflections. The nose opens with white peach, nectarine and citrus blossom, layered with hazelnut, nougat, struck flint and a subtle hint of sea spray. On the palate it is medium-bodied and elegant, combining ripe stone fruit with lemon curd and grapefruit, supported by fresh acidity and a chalky mineral line. Lees work adds creaminess, while oak brings subtle spice and structure. The finish is long, savoury and refined.

Food pairings suit its balance of richness and freshness: grilled crayfish, roast chicken with herbs, pork cutlets with apple, or vegetarian dishes like truffle risotto, roasted cauliflower or pumpkin ravioli with sage. While delicious in youth, it has the depth and balance to cellar for 6 to 10 years, gaining layers of honey, toast and hazelnut.