2024 Brokenwood Chardonnay, Beechworth, Yarra & Hunter Valley

Perfect, pale green colour and lifted grapefruit aromas. The French oak sits nicely with the fine, juicy citrus flavours on the palate, accompanied by subtle bran meal. The driving force of this wine is the acidity – long and pure. More than two-thirds from Beechworth, the balance being from the Yarra and Hunter Valley. The final components of this wine basically selected themselves. Another top-notch vintage!

Brokenwood Chardonnay from Beechworth, Yarra Valley, and the Hunter Valley is a wine that brings together the best of these iconic Australian wine regions, creating a multi-layered and expressive experience. Brokenwood, a winery with a reputation for quality and innovation, has crafted this Chardonnay with a balance of elegance and power, reflecting the unique characteristics of each region.

The Beechworth component contributes to the wine's freshness and crisp acidity, thanks to its cool climate and high altitude. The Yarra Valley adds a touch of finesse, bringing in ripe fruit and subtle oak influence. Meanwhile, the Hunter Valley adds texture and richness, creating a beautifully rounded wine that showcases the versatility of Chardonnay.

The nose is an aromatic blend of citrus zest, ripe stone fruit like peach and nectarine, and a gentle oak influence that gives off hints of vanilla and toasted almond. There’s also a touch of lemon curd, adding a little sweetness to the overall bouquet. As the wine opens up, layers of complexity reveal themselves, making each sip more intriguing than the last.

The mouthfeel is generous yet balanced, with ripe fruit flavors that are complemented by a creamy texture from some time spent in oak. The wine has a beautiful weight that’s not too heavy, and the acidity is fresh enough to keep it lively. A subtle minerality provides a backbone, keeping the wine clean and crisp, while the finish lingers with a gentle spice and a hint of citrus zest.

Perfect for pairing with dishes that have richness, like roasted chicken with lemon and herbs, creamy pastas, or grilled fish with buttery sauces. It would also complement soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert, or a charcuterie platter with fresh seasonal fruits. Whether you're having it with food or enjoying it solo, this Chardonnay offers an exceptional, balanced experience.