2025 TarraWarra Estate Chardonnay, Yarra Valley

Set high above the Yarra Valley floor, TarraWarra Estate has long been a quiet overachiever, founded by art patrons Eva and Marc Besen and now guided by winemaker Clare Halloran, whose approach leans into site expression with a steady, confident hand. The estate vineyard, planted in the 1980s, sits on rolling slopes of ancient, well drained soils, where cool nights and a long growing season allow Chardonnay to develop flavour slowly without losing its line and freshness.

The Estate Chardonnay captures that balance beautifully. White peach and nectarine sit alongside citrus blossom and lemon zest, with a subtle layer of nougat, almond meal and gentle spice from carefully handled oak. It feels composed rather than showy, the kind of wine that builds quietly in the glass.

There is a lovely shape to the palate, fine acidity threading through stone fruit and citrus, with a faint flinty edge adding tension and interest. Texture is silky but controlled, finishing clean with a lingering savoury note that keeps you coming back for another look.

It works effortlessly with roast chicken and herbs, grilled King George whiting with lemon, or a prawn and fennel salad where freshness is key. For something a little richer, try it alongside pork loin with apple and sage, where the wine’s acidity cuts through while the fruit holds its own.

Drinking beautifully now, though five to eight years in the cellar will bring more complexity, with nutty, honeyed notes emerging while the structure stays intact.