Mount Mary Chardonnay Yarra Valley, Australia – 2021

This Chardonnay was barrel-fermented then matured in 30% new French oak barrels for 11 months before bottling. It did not undergo malalactic fermentation, as the local climate leaves the grapes with the ideal level of acidity when they are picked.

2021 was a superb vintage in the Yarra Valley. This is an intense Chardonnay which radiates concentration and complexity. On the nose it has gentle aromas of honey, melon and pears, with a slight “struck match” character which soon disappears after swirling in the glass. The palate is beautifully balanced with benchmark Yarra Valley purity of fruit, elegance and length. It tastes a touch riper than previous vintages, with pear, stone fruits and ripe apple flavours rather than citrus. French oak adds some structure and mid palate richness. You can enjoy this already but it will evolve and deepen in complexity  for up to 20 years in bottle!

“The 2021 Chardonnay is a special wine, one that speaks clearly of the Yarra Valley but one that also transcends local bounds and is a great wine of the world. Complex, seamless, spicy and creamy, the wine has textural complexity to match with the diverse flavor spectrum. It gets better as it ages, and I truly believe it will remain one of the great Australian Chardonnays for years to come. This is a remarkable wine, one that I enthusiastically recommend. 13.2% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.” 97+ points Wine Advocate (Tasted by Erin Larkin): Publication date: 3rd July 2024