The Piccadilly Valley is arguably one of the Adelaide Hills’ (and Australia’s) best sites for Chardonnay and Brian Croser farms this site wisely. 2023 was the coolest of the last 4 (inc 2020, 21, 22). It was even cooler than average and only 2nd coldest of the new millennium since the 2011 vintage. Picked mid-April. Cool fermentation in 1/3rd new French oak barriques. Maturation on full lees until September. Clear racked and bottled in October.

Tapanappa, Chardonnay, Piccadilly Valley, 2023

Medium-light straw with green highlights. Rich and floral. Full of freshly sliced stone fruit and apple, white blossoms, fig, white chocolate, a little peanut oil, a nuance of oyster shell brine, grapefruit citrus and white stones. Inherent fruit richness which belies the intensity and delicacy. The acidity is a fine spine without a hint of shrillness, the oak wonderfully judged to gently frame the picture of such delicate texture. Length and fruit persistence through the salivating finish.  Elegance and class abound.

RRP: $60
Alc: 12.5%
Rating: 95/100

Wine sample courtesy of Tapanappa