2024 Byrne Farm Chardonnay, Orange

Another release, the fifth from Jeff Byrne, is another wine of tension and purity. He understands the assignment to make the most of Orange’s distinct soils and altitude. Pomelo pulp, lemon sorbet and white peach. Crisp orchard apples and freesia. This is dripping in fruit richness and oak plays second fiddle to the citrus heart. This is chardonnay after all and it's fleshed out in the sides and round curves where it should be. Acidity pushes the wine forward and up a steady incline without being sour or discordant. Some white pepper, nutmeg and sour dough on the finish. This is extreme value for money and the kind of chardonnay that modern day fanatics of the variety are coveting.

95 points Special Value Shanteh Wale winecompanion.com.au

From the elevated vineyards of Orange in New South Wales, Byrne Farm Chardonnay reflects the region’s growing reputation for finely structured, cool climate whites. High altitude plantings, volcanic soils and large diurnal swings allow Chardonnay here to ripen slowly, building flavour intensity while preserving vibrant acidity. Byrne Farm focuses on careful vineyard selection and restrained winemaking to deliver wines that feel both expressive and balanced.

A pale lemon gold with bright green flashes shimmers in the glass. Aromas unfold with white nectarine, grapefruit and ripe pear layered with almond meal, subtle flint and a gentle hint of vanilla spice. There is an inviting freshness to the bouquet that signals both ripeness and regional lift.

The palate is medium bodied and finely textured, delivering citrus and stone fruit flavours framed by lively acidity and a chalky mineral line. Nuances of brioche, hazelnut and saline detail build through the mid palate, leading to a long, clean finish that feels polished and quietly persistent. Delicious now for its clarity and energy, this Chardonnay will continue to gain savoury complexity over six to ten years.

Butter roasted chicken shared at a busy table, grilled prawns with lemon and herbs, or mushroom pasta enjoyed as evening cools outside. A record like The Go Betweens Liberty Belle and the Black Diamond Express or something gently expansive from Ry Cooder drifting through the room, the wine bringing a relaxed country elegance to the night.