Levantine Hill Katherine’s Paddock Chardonnay 2021 from Levantine Hill in the Yarra Valley is a seriously luxurious, single‑paddock expression that channels Grand Cru Burgundy in an unapologetically Victorian way. Hand‑picked across multiple passes, whole‑bunch pressed and 100% barrel fermented in premium French oak, it’s all about precision and purity with restrained yet confident power in the glass.

In the glass, this Katherine’s Paddock Chardonnay 2021 is beautifully elegant and refined – think white peach, ripe pineapple, shortbread and nutty nuances, wrapped in fine oak spice and a touch of struck‑match reduction for complexity. The palate is layered and textural, with butterscotch hints, pithy citrus and a long, savoury finish that shows why Yarra Valley chardonnay is so highly regarded. This is a modern, age‑worthy style that will reward careful cellaring for years.

Food‑wise, it’s a cracking match for butter‑poached marron, roast chicken with tarragon, grilled Moreton Bay bugs or rich lobster mornay – anything where creamy texture and fine acidity can do the heavy lifting. In Adelaide, I’d be pouring this alongside King George whiting with beurre blanc or a truffled cauliflower gratin to really show off its depth. At 93‑point silver‑medal pedigree, it’s a special‑occasion white that absolutely justifies its place on the top shelf.