2024 ‘Applecross’ Chardonnay

From the 1984 plantings of P58 cropped at 4.5 t/Ha. Hand-picked on the 19th of February and whole bunch pressed directly to a mixture of 500 Lt puncheons and 300 Lt hogsheads. Fermentation commenced naturally and completed over 3 weeks until dry before sulphuring to prevent malo and preserve acidity. The wine remained on its lees for 11 months prior to bottling in late February 2025. 174 dozen bottles made.

Vineyard

Founded in 1975 by David and Catherine Lance this distinguished site has been making high quality wines across two generations since its first release 1982. Sited in a natural amphitheatre ranging between 190 - 230 metres ASL in the thin rocky soils of St Andrews. Initial plantings were to Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon in 1976, followed by chardonnay in 1984 and further plantings of pinot noir in 1989, 1998 and 2003. All of these older blocks are planted on their own roots. The 1989 planting is notable as one of the first high density planting of pinot noir in the country at 8,300 plants per hectare, more than 2.5 times the density than the original and more conventional plantings. More recently two more high density blocks have been added planted on rootstocks; more pinot noir in 2021 and chardonnay in 2022. Sadly, the Lance’s decided it was time to sell the vineyard in late 2024 and we are now working with the new owners to continue buying the grapes beyond 2025. 

The 2024 Applecross Chardonnay is sourced from St. Andrews in the Yarra Valley. Made with P58 clone fruit that was planted in 1984, it was naturally fermented and matured in French oak puncheons. Aromatically, the wine leads with white peach and ripe lime flesh, green apple, crushed shells and pressed linen. On the palate, it is pure, with gorgeous clarity and precision. There are notes of crushed nuts and almond meal through the finish pepper it with layers of textural grip and complexity. This is a beautiful wine. 13.1% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.  

95 Points, drink 2025 - 2039. Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate. Published: Sep 19, 2025