If you want to buy quality Australian wine, look no further than a South Australian Chardonnay. It is considered home of some of the best wines produced in Australia. Whatever your preference, be it unoaked or French wooded, then we have a wine for you.
One wine enthusiast referring to our Single Vineyard Chardonnay described it as:
“Having aromas of flowers and pomelo pith carry the nose of this vigorous wine. A lemon-lime tone highlights the lean, svelte palate and accentuates the relatively mild alcohol. This has a fun vibe that’s ready for the table and especially good with salads.”
The Family Selection wines are our premium product. They have been described as an “outstanding” example of a modern-style Australian Chardonnay in a solid class of wines. This wine is always a hit with wine critics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chardonnay?
A versatile white wine made from the chardonnay grape variety with a range of flavours, such as tropical fruits and citrus. It can be crisp and refreshing (our Single Vineyard) or creamy and rich (our Family Selection), depending on the style. It’s loved worldwide and pairs well with seafood, salads, roasted poultry, and creamy dishes.
Is Chardonnay wine dry or sweet?
Chardonnay can vary from dry to slightly off-dry in terms of sweetness. The majority are crafted in a dry style, with little residual sugar. However, winemakers have the flexibility to adjust sweetness levels during production.
It’s always a good idea to check the label or ask a sommelier for specific sweetness information when selecting one. Ours are both dry and very low in sugar.
How long does Chardonnay last?
Once opened, Chardonnay can be enjoyed for about 3-5 days if stored properly in the refrigerator with a wine stopper or tightly sealed. However, its flavours and aromas might start to diminish after the first day.
Unopened bottles can generally be kept for years, depending on the quality and style of the wine. Age-worthy premium Chardonnays like our Family Selection Chardonnay will improve and develop complex flavours for several years, while lighter, fruit-forward styles like our Single Vineyard range are best consumed within a two to three years.
Wooded vs Unwooded Wines
Wooded and unwooded Chardonnay differ primarily in their winemaking techniques and resulting flavour profiles. Wooded, also known as oaked, undergoes ageing in oak barrels, which imparts distinct characteristics.
These tend to have a richer, creamier texture with flavours of vanilla, butter, and sometimes toasted nuts. The oak ageing process can also add complexity and depth to the wine.
Oak barrels facilitate a slow and gradual ageing process, allowing the wine to develop complexity and maturity over time. This extended contact with the wood can result in a Chardonnay with increased depth, structure, and the potential for long-term cellaring
On the other hand, unwooded Chardonnay (like our Single Vineyard range), sometimes referred to as unoaked, is not aged in oak barrels, resulting in a crisper and fresher style.
Without the influence of oak, the primary fruit flavours shine through. Unwooded Chardonnay taste displays vibrant fruit notes such as citrus fruits like lemon and grapefruit, stone fruits like peach and nectarine, and tree fruits like apple and pear.
The decision to use oak or not depends on the winemaker’s preference and the desired style of the wine. Wooded wines tend to have a more pronounced structure and complexity, making them suitable for pairing with richer dishes like roasted poultry and creamy pasta. Unwooded Chardonnays, with their brighter acidity and fruit-forward profiles, are well-suited for pairing with seafood, salads, and lighter dishes.
Ultimately, the choice between wooded and unwooded comes down to personal taste. Some wine enthusiasts prefer the creamy texture and nuanced flavours of oaked Chardonnays, while others appreciate the vibrant fruit and refreshing qualities of unoaked Chardonnays. Exploring both styles allows for a greater appreciation of the diversity and versatility that Chardonnay offers.
