The 2024 Patrick Sullivan Black Sands Chardonnay is a distinctive single-vineyard Chardonnay from Henty in Western Victoria, sourced from a vineyard near Heywood planted in 1990. Its unusual soils combine shallow black volcanic sand and basalt over deep white limestone. The nose shows lemon rind, ripe stone fruit and almond alongside citrus blossom, subtle flint and savoury mineral notes.
On the palate, it is concentrated and structured yet fresh, with a creamy texture balanced by firm acidity and a chalky, saline finish. The hand-harvested fruit was whole-cluster crushed and fermented in French oak barriques, including 30% new oak, followed by full malolactic fermentation and 11 months maturation in barrel.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an excellent choice for Chardonnay drinkers who enjoy powerful, mineral-driven whites with citrus freshness, savoury complexity and well-integrated oak. Enjoy now or cellar for further development. Ideal with grilled fish, scallops, roast chicken, pork, creamy pasta or mushroom dishes.
