The 2024 season saw above-average temperatures before and during the growing period, peaking at 34ºC and leading to an early bud burst. Rainfall was slightly above average, paired with high humidity in early February, prompting proactive disease management through trimming, leaf plucking, and fruit thinning. The fruit was picked in late February and early March from our Hill Park (Block 7), Caldwell Lane (Blocks D and A), and Coole Park Vineyards (Block 1).
The 24 Mrs Payten looks fully formed even in its recent bottling and youth. The chardonnays of Swinging Bridge are aged glacially and often show their best in three to five years. Mrs Payten, however, looks great on release and forever after. Must be the savvy of Mrs Payten herself, watching over her namesake. Here, you'll find Meyer lemon skin, white peach and some ginger root. A lick of new oak shows in churned butter and golden crumpets. Some icicles of refreshing acidity and a lovely honey-almond-cake finish. Superb value and an extremely consistent wine. - 94 points, Shanteh Wale
