Vignerons Schmolzer & Brown 'Thorley' Chardonnay 2023

White florals, notes of crunchy unripe stone fruits, carambola play against almond liqueur and some more complexing savoury notes. The palate has precise linear acidity and absolutely sits in that long, minerally, fine cool climate modern Australian Chardonnay style.

“Essentially, a declassified Thorley, the winemaker chooses 'fruit-forward' parcels for this wine. Lively in the scent of spring flowers, citrus blossom, honeysuckle, white peach and Asian pear. Definitely falls into a fruit-forward style, meshing florals, citrus and stone fruits across the middle palate before tapering off towards the finish. Juicy acidity is a driving force. Still early days for this wine.” Awarded 94 points by Jeni Port, for Halliday Wine Companion.

“Hewn from vineyards around Beechworth, a regional blast of chardy. Spot on. So drinkable, so delicious. Cool refrains of saline minerality, alpine herbs, more green apple and grapefruit in its restrained and refreshing way. Touches of stone fruit, yeah, maybe, but gentle. It’s a tightly wound, vibrant and fresh feeling chardonnay that leans into its inherent regional restraint well. A delight to drink, high refreshment factor in tow. We good.” Awarded 93 points by Mike Bennie, for The Wine Front.