2024 Printhie Mountain Range Chardonnay, Orange

Printhie Mountain Range Chardonnay is a confident, cool climate expression of Orange that leans into altitude, restraint and mineral drive. The fruit comes from high elevation vineyards on the slopes of Mount Canobolas, among the highest Chardonnay sites in Australia. Cold nights, long ripening and volcanic soils combine to deliver natural acidity, tight structure and a clear sense of place that sets Orange apart.

Printhie is led by brothers Ed and Nick Swift, with Nick Swift overseeing the winemaking. His approach to Chardonnay is precise and thoughtful, focusing on site expression rather than overt winemaking gloss. The Mountain Range bottling sits above the estate level wine, drawing on the best parcels from elevated blocks and treated with gentle handling, wild ferment influence, carefully judged French oak and extended lees contact to build texture without excess.

The wine opens with white peach, nectarine and lemon curd, followed by subtle cashew, oatmeal and a fine struck match note. There is real tension through the palate, with bright citrus acidity cutting through a creamy, layered texture. The oak is present but beautifully integrated, adding savoury depth rather than sweetness. The finish is long, saline and mineral, a clear nod to Orange’s volcanic soils and cool climate profile.

This is a Chardonnay that really comes alive with food. Roast chicken, grilled lobster, seared scallops or richer vegetable dishes like pumpkin, corn or cauliflower all sit comfortably alongside its balance of power and freshness. It also rewards patience, with the structure to cellar for eight to ten years, developing more nutty, savoury complexity while retaining its core of precision and energy. A serious Australian Chardonnay that shows just how compelling Orange can be.