The aspiration of Oakridge LVS -- or Local Vineyard Series -- wines is to be outstanding expressions of single vineyards within the Yarra Valley. Local Vineyard Series wines enable wine lovers to compare and contrast the power of terroir and geography in winemaking. In essence, different grape varieties thrive in different soils, and Yarra Valley terroirs and altitudes vary widely. Oakridges expertise and understanding of the region allows viticulturists and winemakers to match a particular variety with a particular site -- with marvellous results. Almost all LVS wines are cellarworthy. The Willowlake Vineyard is just outside Gladysdale in Victorias Upper Yarra Valley. Planted in 1979 at an elevation 300 metres, the cool-grown Chardonnay here ranks with the regions very best. Add the skills of leading Chardonnay exponent David Bicknell and these hand-picked grapes become wines that express their variety and origin with consummate precision and flair.

Flametree are nestled in the picturesque Margaret River wine region where they continue to be surrounded by a buzz and excitement centred on the quality wine they are producing. Attention to detail is paramount in the winery where careful site, clonal and oak selections are made to produce exceptional Chardonnay's like this one. Characters of dried pears, grapefruit, melon and fig are balanced with searing acidity and a length of flavour that speaks to its promising future.

Kevin Cullen was a passionate believer in the quality of Margaret River as a wine region and particularly of its potential to become one of the great areas for both Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Here's his proof! [Biodynamic]

A well-balanced wine by Rosabrook Estate. The primary stone fruits mixed with minerality and subtle oak on the palate. It is fruity and elegant. A beautifully made wine for those seafood dishes.

Pale yellow youthful green tinges, which I equate with quality young chardonnay. Aromatics are instantly very serious. Intense fruit nectarines and white peaches melding with lemon citrus beautiful French oak hovering just above the wine at the moment intense more than a cursory nod to Burgundy. The tiniest whiff of sulphides perfect for a wine of this age. When sipped, the wine shows its incredible intensity, no doubt derived from the very low yield.

Winemaker notes Colour: Pale Gold Bouquet: Our Reserve Chardonnay has a bright and lifted nose of sweet pastry, lemon curd and fleshy white stonefruit. Palate: The palate displays a rich and layered mix of fresh stonefruit, citrus and intense vanilla bean flavours. A fine mineral thread ensures a wine of length and persistence. Viticulture The vineyard is planted on Karri loam gravel soils with underlying laterite. Vine rows run north south down a moderate north facing slope and are clone Gin-Gin with trellis structured to vertical shoot positioning. The vineyard is subject to the cool Southern Ocean breezes and ripens slowly, evenly and with naturally high acidity. Winemaking The fruit is handpicked then cooled before whole bunch pressing. New and seasoned barrels are filled directly from the press to enhance complexity. Only the free run fraction is reserved with harder pressings separated to ensure a delicate and fine expression of the fruit in this wine. The juice is left to ferment spontaneously and can take up to three weeks to ferment with some cooling at the height of ferment. After ferment the barrels are topped and gently stirred with inert gas protection monthly. A small number of barrels were encouraged to finish malolactic fermentation to ameliorate the natural acidity. After nine months in barrel the wine is assembled in tank and aged on lees to further encourage complexity.

The Castelli Estate Chardonnay Pemberton WA 2024 is a stunning representation of the exceptional wines coming out of the Pemberton region in Western Australia. This vintage, produced by the renowned Castelli family, is a testament to their dedication and expertise in winemaking. On the nose, aromas of ripe peach and tropical fruits mingle with hints of vanilla and toasted oak. The wine's golden hue hints at its rich and complex palate, where flavours of juicy pineapple and creamy lemon curd are balanced by a subtle minerality. The well-integrated oak adds a luxurious touch, while the vibrant acidity brings freshness and balance to the wine. With its smooth and lingering finish, this Castelli Estate Chardonnay is a true delight to the senses. Enjoy it now or cellar it for a few years to experience its full potential. This is a wine that truly showcases the beauty and quality of Pemberton's terroir.

The 2024 Pedestal Chardonnay from Margaret River, crafted by the renowned Larry Cherubino Wines in Western Australia, is a true masterpiece. A pale straw hue with golden highlights greets the eye, hinting at the wine's complexity and depth. On the nose, aromas of ripe peach, tropical fruits, and vanilla mingle with a touch of oak. The palate is full-bodied and creamy, with flavours of juicy pineapple, buttery toast, and a subtle hint of citrus. The judicious use of oak adds a delightful layer of complexity and structure. The finish is long and elegant, leaving a lingering impression of ripe fruits and a touch of minerality. This Chardonnay is a true expression of Margaret River's terroir, showcasing the region's ability to produce exceptional wines. Enjoy now or cellar for further development. Pair with roasted chicken, seafood risotto, or a creamy cheese platter for a truly indulgent experience.

COLOUR Deep straw in colour. NOSE Vibrant aromatics iof toasted almonds, lemon peel and stonefut. PALATE The palate is full with white peach and nectarine, generous mid palate texture and a refreshing lemon balm acidity providing length.

The 2023 RO Finisterre Chardonnay MR from Margaret River is a true gem from the renowned Robert Oatley Vineyards. With its pale straw colour, this wine immediately catches the eye. Upon the first sniff, the nose is greeted with vibrant aromas of ripe peach and citrus, followed by subtle hints of toasted oak and vanilla. On the palate, the wine reveals a rich and creamy texture, showcasing flavours of tropical fruit, lemon curd, and a touch of butterscotch. The oak influence is beautifully integrated, adding depth and complexity to the wine. The finish is long and lingering, with a refreshing touch of acidity. This Chardonnay is a prime example of the quality and finesse that Margaret River is known for. Perfect for pairing with seafood or creamy pasta dishes, this 2023 vintage is sure to impress.