2025 Bannockburn 1314 a.d. Chardonnay, Geelong

Bannockburn 1314 A.D. Chardonnay from Geelong is a bright, textural and quietly complex cool climate Chardonnay that captures the Bannockburn estate’s signature balance of purity, savoury depth and mineral drive. The fruit comes from estate vineyards planted on volcanic basalt, limestone and ancient clay loams, soils that naturally give Chardonnay both tension and subtle richness. Geelong’s brisk winds, cool nights and long, steady ripening season help maintain crisp acidity while allowing the fruit to develop fine citrus and stone fruit detail. Bannockburn’s winemaking philosophy leans toward gentle handling and vineyard transparency: whole bunch pressing, wild fermentation, and maturation in a thoughtful mix of seasoned French oak that shapes the wine without leaving heavy imprint.

The bouquet is lifted and elegant, offering lemon zest, white peach and green apple alongside jasmine, almond meal and a faint note of hazelnut. Beneath the fruit sits a savoury, mineral undertone recalling wet stone, sea spray and cool clay. As the wine opens, hints of grapefruit pith, chamomile, light brioche and soft spice add depth and quiet luxury.

The palate is finely poised, combining freshness with a subtle creaminess from time on lees. Citrus and stone fruit glide across a gently chalk edged texture, guided by bright acidity that keeps the wine lively and refreshing. Flavours of lemon curd, peach skin, pear and a touch of spice unfold steadily, joined by a cool mineral line that carries through to the finish. The wine closes long, dry and beautifully shaped, with lingering citrus, florals and a whisper of savoury complexity. It drinks beautifully now but will gather elegant hazelnut and honeyed nuance over the next three to five years.

Superb with roast chicken, grilled whiting, scallops, creamy vegetable dishes, sushi, goat cheese, pasta with herbs and butter, or simply as a refined aperitif with friends.