2024 Domenica Chardonnay, Beechworth

Domenica Chardonnay from Beechworth is a poised, elegant, and quietly powerful expression of one of Victoria’s most compelling wine regions. Crafted by Peter Graham, former assistant to Rick Kinzbrunner at Giaconda, Domenica Chardonnay is unmistakably Beechworth in its mineral intensity and structure — but with a restrained, modern edge that makes it incredibly refined and age-worthy.

The fruit is hand-picked from high-altitude vineyards planted on granitic soils, which contribute to the wine’s tension and sense of place. Fermentation occurs with wild yeast in French oak barrels, around 20 to 30 percent new, followed by full malolactic fermentation and extended time on lees. The result is a Chardonnay that combines precision with quiet complexity — layered, savoury, and textural.

In the glass, it offers aromas of white nectarine, lemon curd, grapefruit pith, roasted cashew, struck match and flint. The palate is taut and finely structured with a cool mineral line, creamy lees texture, and vibrant citrus-acid drive. It finishes long, with a savoury edge and just enough phenolic grip to make it serious without being heavy.

Food pairing: Perfect with roasted spatchcock and preserved lemon, scallops with cauliflower purée, grilled Murray cod with beurre blanc, or potato and leek tart. It also works beautifully with aged Comté or a nutty goat’s cheese.

Cellar potential: Already beautiful with a decant, but will evolve gracefully over 8 to 12 years, gaining richness, hazelnut complexity and added savoury depth.