Patrick Sullivan Ada River Chardonnay 2024

Planted in 1982, the dry-grown Ada River vineyard is in Neerim South in the foothills of Mount Baw Baw in Gippsland. It sits on volcanic soils which run deep into basalt rock at an altitude of 300 metres above sea level. As with all of the 2024 releases, this was barrel fermented before full malo and elevage in barrique for eleven months with 30% new. 13.8% abv. Beguiling aromas of white peach, yellow apple, and lightly toasted hazelnut lead the charge with river stone, subtle flint, nectarine and Meyer lemon in support. This is gorgeous from the get go, and it blossoms with air to reveal further aromas of ginger and chamomile tea with the amalgam of these notes resulting in a concentrated and wonderfully complex aromatic profile. The palate is generous and concentrated while still achieving detail and control. White peach and nectarine sit above hazelnut, yellow apple, a glimmer of flint and Meyer lemon again. Excellent intensity here, it bursts through the mouth with assurance and masterful balance before a succulent framing of chalky phenolics and stony minerality pull it all long through the finish. This is brimming with concentration and complexity while in a lifted and controlled aesthetic. A very smart release.