Charming Chardonnay Dozen v2.0

Katnook pioneered Chardonnay in the Coonawarra, initially planting vines in 1971 and with the 1980 vintage marking the first commercial release.

Why: Criminally good for $30

When: 1980... Katnoook is the Coonawarra Chardonnay pioneer

Organoleptics: Stonefruit, citrus, butteriness, hazelnut

Drink with: Risotto, roast pork, chook

Drink if you don't like: Spending $50+ for spectacular Chardonnay

The mild to cool 2022 growing season was exceptional for Coonawarra Chardonnay. Small quantities of fruit were pressed straight to oak, 20% of which was new. From there, wild fermentation and lees stirring to build texture and creaminess was employed every couple of weeks. Flavours and aromas here are of stonefruit, hazelnut, cream and spice.