Kyneton Ridge are the first Certified Sustainable Vineyard in Macedon Ranges. Owners Angela and Andrew Wood have embraced regenerative viticulture, and through 2024, underwent a rigorous audit process of sustainability across the environmental, social, and economic aspects of their business. Winemakers are Andrew’s son Patrick and his partner Greta (from the 2022 vintage). Sourced from granitic soils, the wine had 20 days in barrel for ferment and then another 8-9 months for maturation in French oak.

Kyneton Ridge, Reserve, Chardonnay, Macedon Ranges, 2024

Pale lemon straw in colour. Funky and full, with plenty of barrel work notes of hazelnuts, bread crust, cashew cream off set with richer melon and yellow apple flesh, lily white florals, grapefruit skin, citrus blossom and a hint of roast chicken skin brine. Certainly not backwards in coming forwards. Broad frame and with flesh that works to all edges of the canvas. Apple and citrus flesh, brown spice and a little briny minerality. There’s still a sharpness to the acidity which keeps it on the straight and narrow, ably supported with some toasty, yet almost green apple phenolics. Tart.

RRP: $45
Alc: 12%
Rating: 89/100

Wine sample courtesy of Kyneton Ridge