Yarraloch Stephanie’s Dream Chardonnay 2022

This is a single vineyard Yarra Valley Chardonnay, made in a similar manner to the Estate wine. Again, 100% barrel fermentation after whole bunch pressing, wild yeasts, with the oak all 500-litre French puncheons, 37% new. Just 248 cases were made. Lemon straw in colour, the nose reveals spicy notes along with herbs, cashews, stone fruits, apricot skins and gives the impression of a breeze blowing gently across lavender fields. The oak is deftly handled and we see the emergence of some early complexity. The wine has balance, length, intensity and power and it really does need another two to three years before it really kicks into gear. At that stage, the sky is the limit. And it should drink beautifully for the following eight to ten years.