Chardonnay 2021

Originating from the Yarra Valley in the heart of Victoria, this Chardonnay comes from a vineyard influenced by a cool climate and moderate altitude, which promote a slow and balanced ripening of the grapes. The plots are planted on varied soils, a blend of clay, alluvial deposits, and volcanic influences, contributing to the wine's natural complexity. The proximity of Melbourne brings marked temperature contrasts between sunny days and cooler nights, preserving the aromatic freshness and acidity characteristic of the great wines of this Australian region.

The grapes for the 2021 Innocent Bystander Chardonnay are harvested at optimal ripeness and then gently pressed before fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, designed to preserve aromatic freshness and fruitiness. A portion of the wine is aged on its fine lees for several months, with a judicious use of oak to add texture and complexity without masking the varietal character. This aging process combines tanks and barrels to maintain a modern, balanced, and vibrant style, typical of the Innocent Bystander estate.

This wine reveals notes of green apple , white peach , and ripe citrus , complemented by delicate floral touches and spicy nuances imparted by oak aging. Brioche and lightly toasted accents underscore a subtly oaked character, while a mineral backbone provides tension. On the palate, the texture is both ample and precise, supported by a lively yet harmonious acidity, with a persistent and mouthwatering finish that highlights the balance between freshness, fruit, and finesse.

Australia began producing wine more than two centuries ago. This has resulted in a country rich in old vines, multigenerational winemaking families, and a deep-rooted knowledge and respect for craftsmanship. Add to this a thirst for exploration and innovation, a fearless attitude, and a diverse portfolio of 65 wine regions across a wide range of climates, and you have the makings of an extraordinary wine nation. Australia burst onto the export scene in the 1980s and has since been offering the world vibrant, fruity, and exceptionally good-value wines. Until the late 1990s and early 2000s, the history of Australian wine was dominated by examples of Shiraz, Grenache, and overly concentrated red blends. Between these two extremes lies the diverse range of high-quality Australian wines and regional wines that has always existed. Australian viticulture is concentrated primarily along the southern coastline where conditions are cooler. There are four main wine regions, each centered around major cities: Western Australia around Perth, South Australia around Adelaide, Victoria around Melbourne, and New South Wales around Sydney. The country is one of the world's largest wine producers and was the fourth-largest exporter in 2011. This recent development has made Australia one of the most prominent countries for the quality of its wines. You can taste Australian wines throughout the country. Each Australian region has its own grape varieties. Australian wines are defined by their grape variety, unlike French wines, which are defined by their terroir.