2025 Corymbia Rocket's Chenin Blanc, Swan Valley

The level of bang for buck here is ludicrous. One of Australia's more complex, exciting textural white wines lays in the glass. Catch it in its youth for the crystalline texture, the sea spray, green almond, Pink Lady apple juice characters, citrus blossom lift, cool, slate-like mineral finish and rush of slippery texture that feels glassy as it does gently sticky. An impressive wine of detail in fruit, florals, minerality and yet one that holds attention for high-end drinkability, too.

95+ points Special Value Mike Bennie, Halliday Wine Companion

From one of the Swan Valley’s most exciting small producers, Corymbia is run by Rob and Genevieve Mann, with deep family roots tied to Houghton and a long history in Australian wine. Rocket’s Chenin Blanc comes from old, dry grown vines on sandy soils, a site that naturally delivers intensity while holding onto freshness, and the style here is all about purity and energy.

The 2025 release is bright and lifted. Aromatics open with green apple, nashi pear and quince, backed by lemon zest and a hint of lime. There is a delicate floral note and a touch of beeswax beginning to emerge, along with a subtle sandy, mineral edge that reflects the site.

On the palate it is light to medium bodied with a clean, flowing feel. The fruit is crisp and precise, driven by a lively line of acidity that gives the wine real energy. Flavours stay in that citrus and orchard fruit spectrum before finishing dry with a lightly savoury, mineral edge that keeps it refreshing.

Winemaking is handled with a minimal intervention approach, allowing the fruit and vineyard to speak clearly, preserving freshness and texture without overworking the wine.

This is a brilliant warm weather wine that really comes alive with food. Think freshly shucked oysters, grilled prawns with lemon and olive oil, or a simple fish taco with chilli and lime. It also works beautifully with dishes like a prawn and chilli pasta, salt cod fritters, or a crisp potato and herb dish, where the wine’s acidity and brightness lift everything.

Drinking beautifully now for its freshness and energy, it is all about vibrancy and immediacy, showing just how compelling Swan Valley Chenin can be.