2024 Hoddles Creek Estate 1er Chardonnay, Yarra Valley

From a single easterly facing block grafted from pinot to chardonnay in 2003. A very bright green gold. A subtle and beguiling wine that took a while to open up, before revealing aromas of yellow plum, apple blossom, oyster shells and jasmine. Just as good on the tightly wound, persistent and really long palate. If drinking now, don't serve this too cold, but know, also, that this will reward time in the bottle.

96+ points Special Value Philip Rich for Halliday Wine Companion

Hoddles Creek Estate has quietly become one of Australia's most admired cool climate producers, consistently delivering wines that rival bottles many times their price. Family owned and led by winemaker Franco d'Anna, the Yarra Valley estate is renowned for meticulous vineyard management and a hands off approach that allows each site to speak with clarity and precision. The 1er Chardonnay represents the finest parcels of fruit from the estate, crafted only when the vintage warrants it.

The vineyards sit in the cool Upper Yarra, where elevated sites, ancient soils and long growing seasons encourage slow, even ripening. Whole bunch pressing, wild fermentation and careful maturation in French oak create a Chardonnay of depth and complexity while preserving the freshness and mineral character that define this outstanding region.

The colour is a brilliant pale gold with youthful green highlights. Aromas of white peach, grapefruit and lemon curd are intertwined with flint, roasted hazelnut and delicate citrus blossom. The palate is finely textured and beautifully balanced, carrying vibrant stone fruit across creamy lees richness, subtle oak and a chalky mineral backbone. Bright natural acidity drives a long, focused finish that lingers with exceptional purity and finesse.

A magnificent partner for butter poached lobster, roasted John Dory, free range chicken with morels, hand cut tagliatelle with brown butter or roasted cauliflower with hazelnuts. Drinking beautifully in its youth, this outstanding Chardonnay has the balance and structure to reward careful cellaring for a decade or more.