2025 Rocky Road by McHenry Hohnen Chardonnay, Margaret River

Rocky Road by McHenry Hohnen Chardonnay is a beautifully expressive Margaret River Chardonnay that blends organic farming, site character and an easy confidence that makes it both serious and incredibly drinkable. The fruit is sourced from McHenry Hohnen’s organically farmed vineyards in the heart of Margaret River, where gravelly loam soils over clay and strong maritime influence from the Indian Ocean shape wines of freshness, structure and natural balance. The name Rocky Road is a nod to the stony soils and the estate’s willingness to embrace a little wildness in the vineyard and cellar.

McHenry Hohnen is one of Margaret River’s most progressive producers, founded by David Hohnen and guided today by a philosophy of organic and biodynamic farming, minimal intervention and transparency of place. Rocky Road sits alongside the estate wines as a more relaxed, accessible expression, but it is made with the same attention to detail. Wild fermentation, gentle handling and careful use of oak are all part of the picture, with nothing pushed too far.

In the glass, the wine is bright and inviting. White peach, nectarine and citrus peel lead, followed by subtle notes of cashew, almond meal and a light struck match character. With air, savoury nuances emerge, brioche, flint and a faint saline edge that speaks clearly of Margaret River’s coastal climate. The palate is beautifully balanced, offering a creamy mid palate flow without heaviness, held in check by fresh, natural acidity. Oak is neatly integrated, adding texture rather than flavour, and the finish is clean, mineral and persistent.

This is a Chardonnay that shines at the table. It pairs effortlessly with roast chicken, grilled fish, scallops, prawns or vegetable dishes where texture matters. It is drinking very well now for its freshness and generosity, but it also has the structure to age comfortably over five to eight years, gaining more savoury complexity while retaining its core of fruit and energy.

Rocky Road by McHenry Hohnen Chardonnay is relaxed, confident and deeply regional. A Margaret River Chardonnay that delivers both immediate pleasure and genuine substance, making it a brilliant all rounder for lovers of modern Australian Chardonnay.