Howard Park Allingham Chardonnay 2024 

This shows its origins clearly from the cooler Karidale sub-region in Margaret River’s south. There’s a restrained, poised character here – quieter and more subtle than the louder Chardonnays further north. Sweet lime, gunflint, white grapefruit, and fine cedar bring immediate impact and class, underpinned by a subtle nougat substratum and a whisper of honey. With aeration, the fruit unfurls to reveal nectarine and white peach, followed by vanilla bean and lees-derived dough notes. Even aromatically, there’s abundant flavour wrapped in an elegant thread. The palate is equally restrained, with gorgeous texture. Dehydrated lime, grapefruit, nectarine, grilled nuts, and lemon peel are funneled through a firm line of saline acidity and chalk-laced phenolics, while cedar lingers in the mouth perfume. The length is lovely, though quietly carried. A classy release.