The 2025 Patrick Sullivan Ada River Chardonnay is a powerful, site-driven Chardonnay from Neerim South in Gippsland, sourced from a one-hectare vineyard planted in 1982 at around 300 metres elevation. Dry-grown vines rooted in deep volcanic soils over basalt produce concentrated fruit, with aromas of white peach and citrus zest alongside toasted hazelnut, delicate spice and a mineral edge.
On the palate, it is generous and textural yet tightly structured, with persistent acidity bringing freshness and length. The hand-harvested fruit was whole-cluster crushed before fermentation in French oak barriques, including 30% new oak, followed by full malolactic fermentation, regular lees stirring and ten months maturation in barrel.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an excellent choice for Chardonnay drinkers who enjoy concentrated, structured whites with bright acidity, mineral character and finely integrated oak. Enjoy now or cellar for further development. Ideal with grilled fish, scallops, roast chicken, creamy pasta, mushroom dishes or semi-hard cheeses.
