2024 Foxeys Hangout Estate Chardonnay, Mornington Peninsula

One of those wines you pour, drink and think, yep, that’s just right. Not complex, but everything is in place. Dabs of citrus, barely ripe white stone fruit, creamy lees with fine acidity and enough texture for a satisfying finish.

91 points Jane Faulkner winecompanion.com.au

Shaped by sea breezes, sandy soils and long, cool ripening, this Estate Chardonnay captures the relaxed confidence and coastal precision that define Foxeys Hangout and the Mornington Peninsula. Estate fruit comes from vineyards influenced by Bass Strait, where cool nights preserve acidity and build layered flavour rather than overt richness. The style leans toward balance and texture, reflecting Mornington’s ability to deliver Chardonnay with both generosity and freshness. Foxeys Hangout has always embraced a hands on, no fuss philosophy, but with a deep understanding of site, letting maritime influence and gentle winemaking guide the final shape of the wine.

The approach in the winery focuses on building complexity without heaviness. Careful fermentation, thoughtful oak and lees work add depth and savoury detail, while still allowing citrus and stone fruit to remain at the core. The result is a Chardonnay that feels modern and coastal rather than broad or buttery, with tension and energy alongside creamy texture.

In the glass it shows pale gold with green flashes. Aromas open with white peach, nectarine and lemon zest, followed by subtle cashew, almond meal and a faint struck match note that adds interest rather than dominance. There is often a gentle saline note, a reminder of Mornington’s proximity to the sea, alongside soft floral and citrus blossom tones.

The palate is medium bodied and finely textured, with stone fruit and citrus layered over a creamy mid palate from lees contact. Acidity is bright and well integrated, giving lift and drive through the finish, while oak sits quietly in the background, contributing structure and gentle spice. The finish is clean, savoury and persistent, with a mineral edge that keeps the wine food focused and refreshing rather than rich.

This is a Chardonnay made for the table. Think grilled fish, scallops, roast chicken, pork with herbs, creamy pasta with seafood, corn and chicken dishes, or simple roast vegetables with butter and lemon. It drinks beautifully now for its freshness and balance, but will also cellar comfortably for five to eight years, gaining extra nutty, toasty and savoury complexity while holding onto its coastal line and energy.