2024 Mandala Chardonnay, Yarra Valley

A mixture of clones, barrel fermented and matured in French oak (20% new). A full yet bright green gold. With its bouquet of yellow peach, apricot and orange blossom, this is more open knit than the '23 at the same age. It's flavoursome and harmonious on the palate, too. Finishes with good persistence.

93 points Special Value Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

The Mandala Chardonnay from the Yarra Valley is a beautifully balanced cool-climate white that captures both the vibrancy and elegance for which this region is renowned. Mandala, established by Charles Smedley in 1999, has become known for its focus on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, crafted from vineyards at Dixons Creek and Yarra Junction. The cooler sites, with their ancient volcanic and clay loam soils, produce Chardonnay with finesse, minerality and subtle complexity.

In the glass it is pale straw with green highlights. The bouquet is lifted and expressive, offering aromas of white peach, nectarine and citrus blossom layered with hints of cashew, nougat and flinty minerality. On the palate it is medium-bodied and finely textured, showing ripe stone fruit and lemon curd flavours balanced by bright acidity and subtle oak spice. The finish is long, refreshing and elegant, showcasing the Yarra Valley’s hallmark precision.

Food pairings highlight its freshness and texture: grilled scallops with lemon butter, roast chicken with herbs, mushroom risotto, or soft cheeses such as brie. While highly enjoyable young, it has the structure to cellar for 5 to 7 years, developing honeyed, nutty complexity with age.