Fermentation in new French oak barriques using natural yeast provided Margan White Label Chardonnay its pale lemon colour. The wine's bouquet is a compilation of white nectarine, grapefruit, struck match and cedar spice aromas. The palate of this modern Australian Chardonnay is lush with flavours of green apple, white peach and flint. Subtle influences of oak and sharp acidity give line and length to the finish. This white varietal can be enjoyed with crispy pork belly or mushroom risotto.

The love affair with alternative Italian varietals continues at David Hook wines. Pecorino is a new arrival, but it was well worth the wait. So latent yet complex.Very pale with a silver fleck. Grapefruit pith, yellow apple and almond aromas. Light-bodied yet very expressive with a bright mix of white and yellow fruit, an underlying nutty layer, mouth-watering acidity and a touch of talc-like grip.

A different expression altogether sans the benefit of bottle age. Youthful. Zesty. Punchy. As filigreed of talcy acidity and fine boned as the rest of the crew, this is guava, lemon grass and sherbet, teeming along a line of candied citrus chew. The wine will blossom in the medium term, but will not shy away from some aged furrows and complexity. Alcohol: 12%. Closure: screwcap. Date tasted: Jan 2018. Drink by: 2029. Price: $35. Rating: 94/100.

The Bimbadgen Palmers Lane Chardonnay 2023 hails from the prestigious Hunter Valley region of New South Wales. This vintage reveals a pale lemon hue, offering delicate aromas of ripe peach, nectarine, and white flowers. On the palate, notes of lemon curd, toasted almonds, and a hint of oak are balanced by a refreshing acidity. A rich and creamy mouthfeel adds depth and complexity to this elegant Chardonnay. The finish is long and lingering, with a touch of minerality. This wine is a testament to the exceptional quality of Bimbadgen Estate's vineyards and their commitment to producing premium wines. Enjoy now or cellar for a few years to allow the flavours to fully develop. Pair with seafood, poultry, or creamy pasta dishes for a delightful gastronomic experience.

Bright citrus, saline along with crisp acidity. Pale gold in colour. Ripe pear, stonefruit, citrus all jump from the glass. Medium bodied, lovely texture. Very drinkable!

Frogmore Creek is a superb cool-climate Chardonnay from Tasmania that shows stonefruit and citrus varietal aromas which are enhanced by quality oak. The palate is beautifully structured with tight natural acidity. A very complex and subtle style.

Complex aromas, delicate pear and citrus fruit flavours enhanced by French oak.

Sitting atop a high hill in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Bimbadgen have been producing quality wines like their Verdelho since 1968. Pineapple and tropical fruits arise on the nose followed by a citrus and troplical palate with lovelly herbal notes on the finish.