The 2025 Patrick Sullivan Willow Lake Chardonnay is a site-driven Yarra Valley Chardonnay from the Willow Lake Vineyard at Gladysdale in the Upper Yarra. Planted between 1979 and 1982 at around 300 metres elevation, the vineyard sits on basalt-derived volcanic soils. The nose shows lime sorbet, fresh citrus peel and white peach alongside roasted hazelnut and subtle savoury notes.
On the palate, it is bright and textural with taut acidity providing precision and energy. The hand-harvested fruit was whole-cluster crushed before fermentation in French oak barriques, with 30% new oak, followed by full malolactic fermentation, lees stirring and ten months maturation in barrel. Gentle nutty oak complexity carries through to a clean, persistent finish.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an excellent choice for Chardonnay drinkers who enjoy refined, mineral-driven whites with citrus freshness, fine texture and restrained nutty oak. Enjoy now or cellar for further development. Ideal with grilled fish, scallops, roast chicken, pork, creamy pasta or mushroom dishes.
