Reserve Chardonnay, Lismore Estate Vineyards 2022

“The 2022 Chardonnay Reserve comprises fruit from the Greyton homestead, which is oxidatively handled and fermented for 11 months in 500-liter barrels (25% new). After swirling to address the reduction, it reveals concentrated scents of dried honey, melted candle wax, orange blossom and a touch of grilled walnut. The palate is well-balanced with mineral-infused slightly tropical fruit, quince and hints of guava that merge into a more mineral-driven taut finish. Quite multi-faceted Chardonnay, this will age with style and panache. If that Corton-Charlemagne is a bit over-priced…and it probably is…then you know where to come. Drink 2024-2040."

Dry farmed, low-yielding parcels in Greyton supply the raw material for this ambitious, intense, concentrated Chardonnay from Samantha O'Keefe. Honey, beeswax, lemongrass and gunflint notes are complemented by slightly toasty 30% new oak and racy minerality. Needs more time in bottle. 2024-29

Possessing elegance and weight, the 2022 Estate Reserve Chardonnay displays layers of fresh citrus with notes of cinnamon and popcorn kernel, yellow apples and lemon pastry cream. Medium-bodied, the wine unfolds, offering a subtly spiced palate with notes of sautéed almonds before displaying succulent acidity that drives the finish. It's still tight and will benefit from another year in the bottle before opening. Just over 13,000 bottles were produced after the wine rested for 11 months on the lees in 25% new oak barrels. Drink 2024-2037.