2024 Lethbridge Chardonnay, Geelong

From a vineyard that's been leased since '04 and overlooks Queenscliff; 50% new oak, 100% mlf. Aromas of ripe stone fruits, fresh vanillin and spice lead onto a generous, creamy-textured and balanced palate. Drink 2026 to 2029.

92 points Philip Rich for Halliday Wine Companion, March 2026

Ray Nadeson and Maree Collis established Lethbridge in 1996 in the Moorabool Valley, northwest of Geelong, on a site with viticultural roots stretching back to 1874. Biodynamic farming and minimal intervention in the winery have been central to the Lethbridge philosophy from the outset — the belief that the best wines express the unique character of the places they come from.

The 2024 Chardonnay is a blend of fruit from four estate and leased vineyards across the Geelong region, all hand-picked and whole bunch pressed before wild fermentation in barrel. The wine underwent full malolactic fermentation and was aged for eleven months on fine lees in 40% new French oak barriques for texture and complexity while keeping the fruit at the centre.

The result sits comfortably in the balanced middle ground that the best Australian Chardonnay now occupies, neither lean and austere nor heavy and over-oaked. Orchard aromatics lead the nose, with fig, white nectarine and a delicate floral quality. The palate is creamy and generous with good underlying freshness and a clean, harmonious finish.

Open well ahead of serving with rich food flavours that are light in texture. Pan-seared scallops with a light butter sauce or Italian style veal with burnt sage would both be great options.