2023 Freycinet Vineyard Chardonnay

Over more than 25 years, Freycinet Chardonnay has repeatedly won high praise, being especially noted for its consistently high quality and ageworthiness. Prime Chardonnay fruit from our original 1979 plantings is handpicked at optimal ripeness and whole bunch pressed followed by fermentation in French oak barriques. During maturation in barrel, regular battonage is carried out to enhance the texture of the wine and balance the crystalline Tasmanian acidity. The result is a triumphant wine of place; elegant and intense, on par with the finest Chablis wines.

The 2023 vintage brought lower than average yields and cooler conditions at the beginning of the growing season, with a return to warmer temperatures during ripening. Fruit quality was excellent with small bunches and berries providing superb concentration of flavours and good acid balance. Chardonnay was a standout variety from the vintage. 

This wine is tightly crafted and combines purity, power and persistence. The delicate aroma features citrus and melon fruits with notes of hazelnut and spice. The palate is pristine, fresh and vibrant revealing ripe rockmelon, white peach, grapefruit and lime peel flavours strung together with shimmering acidity and spicy oak. A wonderful balance of luxurious texture and tension signal a long future ahead.

A favourite match with Tasmanian crayfish, this wine is equally suited to roast chicken and pork.

While this wine offers considerable pleasure now, cellaring over a 10 to 20 year period will prove rewarding.

DRINK: Now to 2035