The 2023 Patrick Underwood Dash Farms Chardonnay is sourced from a vineyard planted in 1999 on granite, quartz and sandy soils in Harcourt, Central Victoria. Produced under Patrick Underwood’s Little Reddie label, the wine comes from a cool, long-ripening vintage and was picked on the earlier side to preserve freshness and balance. Fermented in tank, undergoing partial malolactic fermentation and aged for 12 months in barrel, it reflects Patrick’s thoughtful, low-intervention approach to Chardonnay.
The nose offers white peach, nectarine, citrus and subtle flinty notes with hints of cashew and spice. The palate is bright and finely textured, combining stone fruit richness with vibrant acidity, mineral tension and a long, saline finish. Elegant and restrained, it delivers impressive concentration without sacrificing freshness or drinkability.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A beautifully balanced cool-climate Chardonnay that showcases purity, texture and site expression. Fresh yet layered, it pairs wonderfully with grilled prawns, roast chicken, scallops, creamy seafood dishes and soft cheeses. Enjoy now or cellar through 2030–2032 as it gains further complexity.
