2024 Longview Macclesfield Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills

Something delicious goes here. It's such an easy-drinking chardonnay, ticking lots of boxes for the dictionary definition of the variety. Stone fruits, citrus, apple, light spice, some nougat notes, and set in a frame that feels refreshing and gently puckering. Not reinventing the wheel, but a sure thing.

90 points Mike Bennie winecompanion.com.au

Longview Macclesfield Chardonnay from the Adelaide Hills is a finely detailed, cool climate expression that reflects both the altitude and ironstone rich soils of the Macclesfield subregion. The vineyard sits high in the southern Hills where long, slow ripening seasons and cold nights build natural acidity, tension and aromatic precision. Longview is a family owned estate with deep agricultural roots in the area, and this Chardonnay is handled with a site first mindset. Fruit is hand harvested, gently pressed and fermented with care, then matured in French oak with restraint to build texture and savoury complexity without overshadowing freshness.

The aromatics are refined and quietly complex. White peach, nectarine and lemon curd sit at the core, lifted by citrus blossom and subtle pear skin. Beneath the fruit lies a gentle struck flint note and hints of almond meal and hazelnut from quality oak. As the wine opens, savoury layers emerge with touches of oatmeal, soft spice and wet stone that speak clearly of the cool Macclesfield setting.

The palate is poised and beautifully balanced. Stone fruit and citrus glide through a creamy yet focused mid palate, supported by bright, integrated acidity that gives the wine length and energy. Flavours of peach skin, grapefruit pith, nougat and gentle spice build gradually, finishing long and clean with a mineral edge. It is drinking well now but will reward patience over five to eight years, developing deeper nutty and savoury complexity while retaining its cool climate line.

A natural match for roast chicken, grilled fish, scallops, creamy mushroom dishes, pork with apple or soft cheeses. This is Adelaide Hills Chardonnay with restraint and confidence, showing clarity of site and thoughtful winemaking rather than excess.