- Australian chardonnay has come a long way. Rich, fruit-filled, butter-yellow wines have given way to textural and complex styles that balance acidity with chardonnay's traditional toasty, French oak characteristics. The results are styles that delight on their own, but don't overpower when enjoyed alongside food. Try these examples from five of Australia's acclaimed chardonnay producers.
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2015 Evans & Tate Redbrook Reserve Chardonnay
Citrus and bright stone fruit aromas drive the nose of this textural chardonnay, followed by delicate savoury notes of dried herb, malt, shortbread and oyster. Dried herb and malt flavours coupled with fresh toast from wild barrel fermentation follow on the palate, adding layers of intriguing flavour and complexity.
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2017 Soumah of Yarra Valley Equilibrio Chardonnay
The Equilibio Chardonnay is, as its name might suggest, all about balance. A harmony of the very best barrels, clonal mixing and new oak integration makes way for an opulent and generous wine, bound together with a citrus and nectarine creamy freshness.
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2016 Flowstone Chardonnay
Displaying aromas of stone fruits, roasted hazelnuts, beurre bosc pears, pink grapefruit, and pastries (with hints of honeysuckle) this wine is a complex expression of southern Margaret River chardonnay. Expect a balance of generous fruit, seamless oak, and a refined chalky acid finish.
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2019 Winmark Single Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay
Meticulously selected fruit and 12 months spent in French oak post-fermentation allow this chardonnay to bring a truly complex style to the palate. Notice aromas of almond and butterscotch, and depth and layers to the lemon, apple and honey flavours that finish with a creamy texture. -
2018 Domaine Naturaliste Artus Chardonnay
This wine presents intense, fruit-forward flavours on the palate with a similarly bold and fruity perfume. Healthy levels of natural acidity are softened through malolactic fermentation in French oak, allowing the wine to, as winemaker Bruce Dukes says, ‘paint its own picture’.
RRP $65 | drink to 2025 | evansandtate.wine
RRP $80 | drink to 2030 | soumah.com.au
RRP $36 | drink to 2025 | flowstonewines.com
RRP $49 | drink to 2025 | winmarkwines.com.au
RRP $49 | drink to 2026 | domainenaturaliste.com.au
*This article was produced by Halliday Wine Companion in partnership with the featured wineries.
