The 2023 Montalto Chardonnay is a beautifully refined Mornington Peninsula Chardonnay that showcases the elegance, texture and maritime freshness that have made the region one of Australia’s premier homes for the variety. Crafted from estate-grown fruit and fermented with wild yeast before maturation in French oak, the wine balances concentration and creamy complexity with remarkable precision and energy. The cool 2023 growing season delivered exceptional natural acidity and layered fruit intensity, resulting in a Chardonnay of genuine finesse and ageing potential.
The nose reveals white peach, grapefruit and preserved lemon layered with almond croissant, nougat and subtle flinty minerality. On the palate, it is richly textured yet beautifully controlled with creamy lees complexity, fine citrus acidity and a saline mineral edge that drives the wine through a long, elegant finish. Layers of stone fruit, grapefruit, crème brûlée and gentle oak spice unfold with precision and balance, finishing fresh, layered and quietly powerful with classic Mornington Peninsula refinement. Critics praised the wine’s concentration and harmony, with Halliday awarding 93 points and QWine 95 points.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2023 Montalto Chardonnay is a polished and sophisticated cool-climate Chardonnay — layered, mineral and beautifully balanced with excellent depth and finesse. Perfect with lobster, roast chicken, creamy seafood dishes, scallops or soft cheeses. Enjoy now with a short decant or cellar comfortably through 2032.
