2023 Balnaves Chardonnay

A beautifully balanced Chardonnay from Coonawarra’s renowned Balnaves family, combining freshness, texture, and exceptional value.

Price:
Sale price$29.00
Stock:
In stock, ready to ship
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Description

The 2023 Balnaves Chardonnay is proof that Coonawarra isn’t just about stellar reds. The Balnaves family has nailed a Chardonnay that’s equal parts richness and freshness, showing off their signature attention to detail.

Handpicked after a cool, slow ripening season, the fruit was whole-bunch pressed and barrel fermented, with a mix of wild and cultured yeasts. Eleven months on lees have added some depth, but it’s all about balance here—nothing too heavy, just pure, bright flavours with a touch of texture.

Expect white peach, lemon zest, and a hint of chamomile, tied together with a whisper of almond and creamy oak. It’s got that vibrant acidity to keep it fresh but enough texture to feel satisfying.

Great value for a Chardonnay this good—whether you’re cracking it open with a seafood spread or letting it develop in the cellar for a few years. Balnaves knows how to get it right.

94 points
"White stone fruit, ruby grapefruit citrus, and apple blossoms. A sliver of trifle and whipped cream. Cinnamon sugar and grated nutmeg. An even but thoughtful flow of fine acidity and lemon yogurt creaminess. Once again hitting the mark for wonderfully ripe and balanced chardonnay. This is superb value for money."
- Shanteh Wale (Halliday Wine Companion)

94 points - "Matured for 11 months in 25% new oak. White stone fruit, ruby grapefruit citrus, and apple blossoms. A sliver of trifle and whipped cream. Cinnamon sugar and grated nutmeg. An even but thoughtful flow of fine acidity and lemon yogurt creaminess. Once again hitting the mark for wonderfully ripe and balanced chardonnay. This is superb value for money." - Shanteh Wale (Halliday Wine Companion)

Wine Details
Region: Coonawarra, South Australia
Vintage: 2023
Type: White Wine
Variety: Chardonnay
Volume: 750ml
Alcohol Volume: 12.5%
pH: 3.00
Acidity: 8.04 g/L
Standard Drinks: 7.4

Maturation
Enjoy while young and fresh, but this Chardonnay will also cellar well if desired.

Closure: Screw Cap

Background
The Balnaves Coonawarra Vineyard, established in 1975, is located at the southern end of the Coonawarra Terra Rossa strip. The Balnaves family, associated with the district since 1855, remains fully committed to a high level of hands-on involvement.

Winemaking
Hand-picked in early March 2023 at 12.0 Baume following a long, cool ripening period. Whole-bunch pressed and barrel fermented, with half wild ferment and half AWRI 1375 yeast. The wine was matured in 18% new oak with 11 months of lees contact. A total of 34 barriques were produced.

Tasting Notes
The nose reveals aromatic white peach and jasmine, complemented by a complex palate of lemon, chamomile, and almond kernel.

Peak Drinking / Cellaring Potential
Best enjoyed within 2-4 years, though it will cellar gracefully for longer if desired.

Food Matches
Ideal with chicken, seafood, and pasta dishes.

Price Bracket $30 or Less
Type White
Body Full Bodied
Variety Chardonnay
Country Australia
Region Coonawarra
Australian State SA
Reviewed By Halliday Wine Companion
Critic Score 94
Alcohol 13%
Size 750ml
Vintage 2023
Closure Screw Cap

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