Altus/Rise Ascension Chardonnay 2025

This compelling Margaret River Chardonnay spent around four months maturing in French oak. The colour is a shimmering lemon, and the wine opens with the most gorgeous aromas of grilled cashews, stone fruits, oatmeal, spices and nutmeg, with a hint of lemon sponge cake. Early days it might be, but there is already evidence other complexity which should continue to build in the coming years. The oak handling has been done superbly, and the wine has excellent focus, juicy acidity and a lingering finish. On the palate we see the emergence of notes of peaches, nectarines and a hint of mango. Finely balanced, this is a quality Chardonnay for enjoying over the next six to eight years.