2025 Ten Minutes by Tractor 10X Chardonnay, Mornington Peninsula

Built as a gateway into the Ten Minutes by Tractor world, this Chardonnay still carries the obsessive vineyard focus that made the estate famous. Fruit is drawn from a mosaic of cool Mornington Peninsula sites, many sitting within sight of the ocean where salt air and rolling fog slow ripening. These conditions stretch the season, building flavour at lower sugar levels and locking in the crisp natural acidity that defines Peninsula Chardonnay. Even at this level, the philosophy is site respect first, winemaking second.

Harvest is timed parcel by parcel to capture brightness and phenolic detail. Whole bunch pressing protects delicacy, and fermentation takes place with a mix of wild and cultured yeasts to layer complexity. The wine spends extended time on fine lees, building texture and subtle savoury depth, while carefully judged oak adds structure without sweetness. Everything is tuned toward balance, aiming for a Chardonnay that feels energetic rather than heavy.

Pale gold in colour, the aromas are lifted and precise, opening with white peach, grapefruit and lemon curd layered with almond, flint and a whisper of sea spray. The palate is medium bodied and tightly framed, with citrus and stone fruit carried by bright acidity and a creamy, chalk edged texture. Flavours expand through the mid palate before narrowing into a long, mineral finish that feels cool and mouthwatering.

It pairs beautifully with oysters, scallops, roast chicken and butter rich seafood dishes. Already impressive for its freshness and clarity, it will cellar comfortably for six to eight years, developing nutty and savoury nuance.