2024 Wirra Wirra Yandra Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills

This is off a site in Lenswood at 480m, planted to G9V7 clone in '98. Like the 12th Man, this has considerable immediate appeal, with immaculate fruit deftly framed by quality oak, lees and subtle, complex sulphide notes. The difference here is the fruit steps up into a cru class, with more command and concentration, but it does so with poise and finesse. White stone fruit, lemon curd, green pear, oyster shell, struck match, crystallised ginger, white florals. It’s integrated, charming and with exceptional length at this early stage. No doubt it will be even better on release. It’s all class.

96 points Special Value Marcus Ellis winecompanion.com.au

This famous McLaren Vale producer has moved into the cooler climes of the Adelaide Hills and Lenswood to source fruit for this excellent Chardonnay. The vineyard was planted in 1998 to the G9V7 clone, which has proved ideal for the region. Intense savoury, slightly roasted cashew notes lift from the nose, while the palate is deeply penetrating and complex. There’s a nice butterscotch and honeycomb-like character, a touch of grapefruit, and some notes of vanilla. Powerful and complex through to a sustained finish.

96 points Ray Jordan winepilot.com

Wirra Wirra Yandra Chardonnay from the Adelaide Hills is a bright, layered and beautifully composed expression of cool climate Chardonnay, shaped by the region’s altitude, long ripening season and crisp, maritime influenced nights. The Yandra vineyard lies high in the Hills where lean, rocky soils and constant air flow help build tension, purity and aromatic lift in the fruit. Hand picking and whole bunch pressing set the tone for precision, followed by wild fermentation in a mix of new and seasoned French oak. Lees stirring adds texture, while careful maturation preserves freshness and structure. The result is a wine that sits comfortably among the most refined Chardonnays of the Hills, yet retains Wirra Wirra’s signature generosity.

Aromatics bloom with white peach, nectarine and lemon curd supported by blossom, citrus peel and subtle notes of roasted hazelnut from oak. A faint struck match nuance nods to wild ferment and quality barrels, while a cool mineral thread evokes wet stone and early morning mist over the vines.

The palate brings both energy and creaminess. Stone fruit, grapefruit and crisp green apple run through a beautifully balanced line of acidity, giving the wine drive and clarity. Lees contact brings a supple mid palate of almond meal and brioche, although the overall impression remains fresh, coastal and finely shaped. The finish is long and mineral with hints of nougat and citrus pith. It will gain extra savoury complexity over five to seven years, developing honeycomb, toasted nuts and deeper spice.

Superb with roast chicken and thyme, grilled fish with lemon butter, scallops, mushroom tarts, vegetable risotto or soft cheeses. A confident and sophisticated Chardonnay that captures the Adelaide Hills’ cool climate precision with Wirra Wirra’s trademark poise.