Bethany Blue Quarry Chardonnay 2023 from Bethany Wines in Eden Valley is a seriously classy cool–climate Chardonnay, medium lemon in the glass and brimming with tension, verve and flavour – a proper step up that still feels utterly drinkable. This Blue Quarry Chardonnay 2023 shows why Eden Valley is such a clever source for finely tuned, modern Aussie Chardy.

The nose serves up almond biscotti, lemon zest, white flowers and just–toasty oak, rolling into lemon friand, nutmeg, white stone fruit and pineapple core. On the palate it’s creamy yet taut – ample stone fruit and citrus wrapped in fine, lacy texture, grilled–nut and crème–brûlée nuance, and a line of minerally acidity that keeps everything humming and focused through the finish.

This is made for roast chook, pan–fried snapper, creamy seafood pasta or a rich veggie gratin, where that combination of flavour and freshness shines. Bethany Blue Quarry Chardonnay 2023 will also sit beautifully with soft cheeses or scallops in brown butter – just give it a light chill and let the Eden Valley fruit do the talking.