2024 Murdoch Hill The Rocket Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills

Flashy, minerally and restrained aromas of grilled lemons, struck match, salted nuts, citrus blossoms, phosphorus, oyster shells and honeysuckle. The palate is tightly wound, with excellent density of fruit cut through by electric acidity and bright, tense clarity that leaves a mouthwatering finish of oatmeal plus savory and saline undertones. It’s hard to believe this is 100% malolactic given the high-voltage, energetic drive. This is truly excellent and all class. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

98 points #4 Top 100 2025 jamessuckling.com

The Rocket is Murdoch Hill’s statement Chardonnay, drawn from the coldest, highest sections of the estate in the Adelaide Hills and built to show tension, detail and longevity. The vineyard sits around Oakbank where elevation, shallow soils and constant airflow slow ripening and preserve piercing natural acidity. Winemaker Michael Downer has shaped this wine as a flagship expression of site, combining Burgundian precision with Adelaide Hills energy. The Rocket has built a reputation as one of the region’s modern benchmarks, collecting major show accolades and critical praise for its structure and clarity year after year.

Fruit is picked early for line and freshness, then whole bunch pressed and fermented with wild yeast. Extended lees work builds texture while tight oak selection adds frame without excess sweetness. Everything is about balance and architecture, allowing the vineyard’s mineral spine to remain visible.

In the glass it shows pale gold with green flashes. Aromas are finely layered, opening with lemon zest, white peach and grapefruit, followed by cashew, almond meal and flint. There is a cool, saline edge that signals altitude and restraint.

The palate is tightly wound and powerful, with citrus and stone fruit wrapped in a creamy but disciplined texture. Acidity is bright and driving, carrying the wine long and precise. Oak sits seamlessly in the background, contributing savoury spice and structure. The finish is mineral, persistent and mouthwatering, built for slow evolution.

It pairs beautifully with lobster, scallops, roast chicken, pork and rich seafood dishes. Impressive now with air, it will cellar confidently for eight to twelve years, gaining nutty and savoury complexity while retaining its electric line. A serious Adelaide Hills Chardonnay that continues to earn its reputation as a modern classic.