Giaconda 2019 Estate Vineyard Chardonnay (Beechworth)

Giaconda's Chardonnays have a kind of cult status Down Under for their ability to give Burgundy a run for its money. In the Beechworth region of Victoria, at high altitude, the winemaking is ultra traditional. A rich, toasty style, this vintage is gorgeously aromatic right off the bat, with concentrated melon, stone fruit, smoke, oyster shell and buttered toast, revealing polished oak. In the mouth, the flavors ricochet with intensity and richness. Beautifully balanced with length and poise, this is an indulgent wine now, but could cellar gracefully for another 12-15 years. Christina Pickard