2024 Toolangi F Block Chardonnay, Yarra Valley

Sourced entirely from the '01-planted, very protected 0.4ha F Block. 100% mlf with no lees stirring. A stunning chardonnay. Aromas of stone fruits, ripe white pear, honeysuckle and grilled cashew together with a little gunflint. This all comes together on the powerful, saline, textured and taut palate. The flavours persists long after you've tasted this, while the acidity is perfectly integrated into the wine, ensuring this will age superbly.

98 points Special Value Philip Rich Halliday Wine Companion

From one of the coolest pockets of the Yarra Valley, the F Block at Toolangi sits high and exposed, where slow ripening builds intensity while locking in that signature line of acidity. Toolangi has built its reputation on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that lean into precision rather than weight, and this single block release shows just how detailed the site can be.

The 2024 vintage is bright and finely tuned. Aromatics open with white peach, nectarine and lemon zest, layered with grapefruit and a subtle flinty note. There is a gentle savoury edge, almond, cashew and a hint of struck match, giving the wine complexity without overpowering the fruit.

On the palate it is medium bodied with a tight, focused structure. Citrus and stone fruit sit at the core, supported by a line of fresh acidity that gives the wine drive and length. Lees work adds a light creaminess, but the finish stays clean and mineral, with a saline edge that lingers.

Winemaking is handled with a careful, modern approach, wild fermentation, thoughtful oak use and time on lees, all aimed at building texture while preserving clarity and site expression.

This is a brilliant match for dishes that play on freshness and texture. Think grilled king prawns with lemon and garlic, sashimi with a touch of citrus, or seared scallops with a light beurre blanc. It also works beautifully with vegetarian dishes like zucchini and ricotta tart, charred corn with lime and feta, or a cauliflower and almond dish, where the wine’s acidity and subtle savoury notes bring everything into focus.

Drinking beautifully now for its brightness and energy, it will also reward a few years in the cellar, picking up more nutty, complex layers while holding its structure.