The 2023 First Creek Winemaker's Reserve Chardonnay is a premium Hunter Valley Chardonnay crafted in a refined Australian style, showcasing exceptional purity, finesse and balance. The nose is bright and expressive, revealing aromas of grapefruit, white peach and lemon zest, complemented by notes of star fruit, almond, oatmeal, river stone and subtle barrel ferment complexity. Careful fruit selection, slow cool fermentation in French oak and eight months of lees maturation create a beautifully layered and restrained wine with outstanding precision.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with vibrant natural acidity and a beautifully textured, creamy mouthfeel, delivering flavours of grapefruit, white peach and citrus layered with savoury notes of toasted almond, oatmeal and fine mineral characters. The finish is long, focused and beautifully balanced, combining concentration with elegance and showcasing the hallmark restraint of premium Hunter Valley Chardonnay.
Ben’s Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is an exceptional Hunter Valley Chardonnay for customers seeking a premium Australian white with elegance, complexity and outstanding cellaring potential. Beautifully expressive now, it will continue to evolve gracefully over the next 6–8 years, developing richer brioche, roasted nut and savoury characters while retaining its vibrant citrus core. Ideal with grilled scallops, lobster, roast chicken with lemon and thyme, creamy mushroom risotto or mature Comté cheese.
