The 2025 Bannockburn S.R.H Chardonnay Magnum is a concentrated single-site Chardonnay from Geelong, Victoria, presented in a 1500ml bottle. Named after founder Stuart Reginald Hooper, S.R.H. comes from just 12 rows of P58 Chardonnay planted in 1976 at the Olive Tree Hill vineyard. These are Bannockburn’s oldest Chardonnay vines, rooted in clay, limestone and ancient marine sediments on a north-facing slope. Hand-picked fruit was whole-bunch pressed and fermented with wild yeasts in French oak, approximately 40% new, before spending 10 months on lees, mostly without stirring, to develop depth and texture.
Expect pear, peach and concentrated citrus, layered with cashew, pastry, cedar and subtle savoury notes. The palate combines substantial fruit with fresh acidity and a firm mineral character, giving the wine both richness and precision. Approximately 70% underwent malolactic fermentation, contributing texture while preserving its energetic structure. Campbell Mattinson awarded the 2025 S.R.H. Chardonnay 95 Points for The Wine Front, praising its freshness, length and beautifully integrated flavours. This is a tightly coiled young Chardonnay, with the concentration of mature vines and the definition to develop further complexity through careful cellaring.
Ben’s Recommendation:
What makes this bottle particularly compelling is its combination of a distinctive old-vine parcel and the 1500ml magnum format. It is an excellent choice for sharing over a special dinner or putting aside to follow Bannockburn’s Chardonnay with age. I would ideally give it a few years, targeting 2028 through approximately 2038, assuming excellent storage. With time, the youthful citrus and stone fruit should develop towards toasted nuts and more savoury complexity. If opening earlier, taste first and allow it to unfold in large white Burgundy glasses; a short decant may help. Pair it with lobster, roast chicken, scallops or turbot with a buttery sauce. For lovers of structured, expressive Australian Chardonnay, this is a rewarding bottle to explore.
