The Gapsted Estate 2023 Chardonnay is intensely complex with a lifted aromas of stone fruits, citrus, and subtle spice, framed by a hint of struck match from barrel fermentation.  The palate is full and layered, with ripe pink grapefruit, nectarine, and white peach at its core. Notes of praline, dulce de leche, and cinnamon custard weave through, supported by a delicate shortbread-like texture.

There’s richness, but it’s held in check by precise Alpine acidity and clear fruit definition. The finish is powerful, long, and refined. This is a Chardonnay built for both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring. Ideally matched with Chicken Supreme (Suprême de Volaille).

Will continue to evolve gracefully for 12+ years.

Alc/Vol: 13.4% pH: 3.32 TA: 6.51 g/L Vegan Friendly

Merrawarra Vineyard, Alpine Valleys

Harvested 14 March 2023.

The 2023 vintage will go down as not only one of the latest on record, but also one of the most challenging in recent memory. A third consecutive La Niña brought a cool, wet spring followed by a mild summer and autumn, with scattered rainfall that certainly kept us on our toes. Whilst the weather made for some stressful and very busy periods, careful vineyard work allowed us to harvest at optimal ripeness, with clean, balanced fruit. Lower yields and a long, slow ripening delivered wines of intensity, ripe flavours and all the hallmarks of age-worthiness. An excellent vintage.

Andrew Santarossa

"Excellent concentration of fruit flavour and the complexity to go with it. This chardonnay kicks some important goals. It tastes of nectarine and pink grapefruit, oyster shells, nougat, wheat and steel, and while it has a richness – and a keen textural element – it feels racy and refreshing throughout. As this wine breathes flinty aromatics emerge, which only adds to both the quality and the appeal. This wine will improve further over the next couple of years. 94 points." Campbell Mattinson, The Mattinson.

“I can see this having a loyal following. Serve this with bubbling mac and cheese and die happy. 92 Points.” Shanteh Wale, Winepilot

“It feels somewhat mouth-filling and yet likewise quite understated. Incredibly charming and delicious. 94 Points.” Mike Bennie, Wine Front

“A well-composed chardonnay from a cool vintage, highlighting citrus blossom florals, white stone fruits, lemon, grapefruit pith, grilled nuts and a splash of savoury preserved lemon. Works the palate, developing depth and weight, with a leesy, mealy almond character that carries the wine across a smooth palate. Well-composed acidity seals a fine wine. 95 Points” Jeni Port, Halliday Wine Companion