Petaluma Piccadilly Valley Chardonnay 2023

A youngster, coiled and tight. It needs time to open, to spread its vinous wings. Don’t over-chill and enjoy the delicacy of aromas and fruit flavours: grapefruit, lemon, fresh-cut green apple and hints of nectarine with almond meal. Piccadilly Valley in the Adelaide Hills is one of the country’s prized Chardonnay districts and champions the modern, cool climate expression of the grape. This was put to the test in 2023 when rain at vintage raised Botrytis as a threat. This Chardonnay was picked early – 12.5% alcohol – and, hence, the delicacy on display and the almost sharp nature of the acidity. It’s one for the cellar, or a wine to be enjoyed at the table, particularly with shellfish. And don’t overchill.