2025 Domenica Chardonnay, Beechworth

Peter Graham just popped round to show his wares. I’ve never met him before because I don’t get out much these days. This is nearly all estate fruit, with some Warner Vineyard to augment. It’s  P58, Mendoza and 95 clone, raised in Austrian oak of which 20% is new.

Pink grapefruit, white peach, hazelnut and spice, light floral notes. It’s bright and fresh, citrus in the driving seat with a little stone fruit in the back, a juicy tang, fine chalk dust texture, a twist of lemon peel cinches a cool finish of excellent length. Beautiful wine here. So lovely to drink.

95+ Points, Gary Walsh, Tasted : Mar26, Alcohol : 13.5%, Drink : 2026 - 2032+

Chardonnay from Beechworth has become one of Australia’s most compelling modern styles and Domenica sits quietly among the region’s most thoughtful producers. Peter Graham established the label after years working in Burgundy and elsewhere in Europe, bringing with him a deep respect for site expression, texture and balance. His vineyards on the elevated granitic slopes around Beechworth deliver fruit with natural concentration and vibrant acidity, allowing Chardonnay to show both generosity and precision. The winemaking approach leans toward wild ferment, careful oak integration and extended lees contact, building complexity without sacrificing clarity.

A pale gold shimmer with green tinges sets the tone. Aromas unfold gradually with white nectarine, grapefruit and lemon curd layered over roasted hazelnut, subtle flint and a gentle creamy nuance. There is a savoury mineral edge that speaks clearly of place. The palate is finely sculpted and textural, stone fruit and citrus gliding across a silky mid palate before tightening into a chalky, focused finish. Subtle spice and saline freshness linger, giving the wine impressive length and quiet authority.

This is Chardonnay that feels equally suited to contemplation and the table. Roast chicken with thyme, grilled scallops, lobster with brown butter or pumpkin risotto will all feel beautifully matched. Drinking superbly now with a short decant, yet capable of evolving over eight to twelve years as nutty, honeyed and brioche like complexity emerges. A refined and authentic Beechworth Chardonnay that showcases Peter Graham’s intuitive understanding of cool climate terroir.