2025 Wirra Wirra Yandra Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills

The Yandra Vineyard is in Lenswood, planted in '98 to G9V7 clone. No winemaking notes provided, but it's classic of feel, the framing of quality French oak adding discreet polish. Oh, this has race and drive, a diamond drill of acidity tunnelling through the wine. And it has flavour intensity and detail, too. Yellow grapefruit, white nectarine, nougat, ginger biscuit, salted praline, crème brûlée, a hint of struck match. This is thoroughly engaging now, but it has the assets to age.

96 points Special Value Marcus Ellis for Halliday Wine Companion May 2026

Wirra Wirra has been one of South Australia's most admired wineries since 1894, blending tradition with innovation across every wine it produces. Under the guidance of chief winemaker Emma Wood and the dedicated vineyard team, the winery continues its long standing reputation for expressive, regional wines that consistently deliver outstanding quality and value.

Yandra Chardonnay is sourced from the cool, elevated vineyards of the Adelaide Hills, where crisp nights and long growing seasons preserve natural acidity while allowing Chardonnay to develop purity and depth. Carefully judged oak maturation enhances the fruit without dominating it, creating a style that is vibrant, textured and unmistakably cool climate.

The colour is a brilliant pale straw with green highlights. Aromas of white peach, nectarine and grapefruit are complemented by lemon blossom, roasted cashew and subtle flinty notes. The palate is fresh and beautifully balanced, combining citrus and stone fruit flavours with creamy texture and finely integrated oak. A lively mineral thread and bright acidity carry the wine through a long, elegant finish with impressive finesse.

A wonderful partner for grilled King George whiting, roast chicken with thyme, prawn linguine, creamy mushroom gnocchi or baked camembert with toasted almonds. Drink over the next five to seven years as further complexity develops in bottle.