Another welcome return for this label after disastrous 2020 vintage (The Hilltop Hoods gave us the most cutting commentary of that year). The Indigo vineyard has “different soils, aspects, clones and vine age,” with the majority being planted to the Mendoza clone. Stuart Hordern, Kate Sturgess and the Brokenwood crew show they’re a dab hand with Chardonnay.

Brokenwood, Indigo Vineyard, Chardonnay, Beechworth, 2021

Pretty colour and solid varietal aromas. Quartz rock, dipped in saline water, lemon zest, nectarine, pear skin, yellow starfruit, ground brown spice and malt bran flakes. Presence and depth, a little spice and grip from the precise, quality oak treatment. Long and finely etched tail with life affirming bright acidity. Top tier Chardonnay from a power hitting region.

RRP: $75
Alc: 12.5%
Rating: 18.75/20 (95/100)

Wine sample courtesy of Brokenwood