Luminant Chardonnay Yarra Valley 2024

This new label from the Yarra Valley has brought in Charles Smedley from Mandala Wines to ensure it is off to the best possible start. The fruit, from the Dixon’s Creek sub-region, is 50% handpicked and then 100% whole bunch pressed. Fermentation is in French oak and 20% of the wine sees malolactic fermentation as well. Maturation is for seven months in that French oak. A deep yellow/straw hue, the wine opens with decidedly nutty aromas, all rather spicy. Cashews and almonds to the fore, supported by notes of stone fruit and melon. We also have hints of some freshly turned earth, honeysuckle and citrus. There is a good line of acidity and the wine is of medium length to enjoy over the next three to five years.