Vineyard Series Willowlake Chardonnay

This Local Vineyard Series is a step down from his flagship 864 series. Struck match and other sulphidic funk characters. Somewhat of an Oakridge hallmark. The medium bodied palate is cleverly constructed with under ripe stone fruit, grapefruit and citrus. The first of 6.

A reminder of what an excellent winemaker David Bicknell is particularly with Chardonnay. This was worked to some extent but not overdone. More in the citrus than stone fruit spectrum with a toasty overlay.

Another modern Australian Chardonnay like the recent Penfolds Bin 311 - flinty and reductive. On the palate Lemon Curd and under ripe stone fruit. With time and air the stone fruit became riper and sweeter. David Bicknell is one of Australia’s best winemakers particularly with Chardonnay. This is his budget Local Vineyard Series at only $32 per bottle. His premium range is called 864. Oakridge was recently named the best winery in Australia by The Real Review (Huon Hooke and Bob Campbell MW. ). Had another bottle on 22nd July 2023 (14 weeks later than first note) with notes as above. Modern, flinty and reductive. Had a 3rd bottle 51 weeks after the first tasting note on 6th April 2024, with similar impressions. Wonderful QPR from one of Australia’s best producers of Chardonnay.

Lovely delicate Pinot ( not usual for Oz ) complex , fresh , only medium weight but delicious.

Another winner at $25.00

K&L notes as follows,

Oakridge's Single Vineyard wines are renowned for their stunning transparency, allowing the unique characteristics of each vintage to shine through. Among the Chardonnays produced by Oakridge in 2021, the Willowlake stood out as the undisputed star. Situated on a distinctive, 900 ft elevation site in the Upper Yarra, the Willowlake vineyard is planted on red, volcanic soils, wrapping a hilltop with a predominantly northern aspect. This unique location yields Oakridge's most robust expression of Yarra Valley Chardonnay. The aromatic profile of the Willowlake Chardonnay is incredibly striking, beginning with a foundation of stone fruit, complemented by notes of brioche and lemon. As the wine breathes in the glass, a subtle oak character emerges, revealing hints of baking spice. On the palate, a powerful surge of Meyer lemon takes center stage, accented by nuances of mandarin and saline. What makes this wine truly special is its weighted center, balanced by agile outer edges. This duality grounds the core fruit flavors while maintaining a lively dance around the palate's edges. The wine's acidity is perfectly balanced, making its presence known in the mid-palate and persisting through a long, umami-rich finish. This is classic Oakridge - a harmonious blend of power and finesse. The Willowlake Chardonnay is substantial and serious, yet simultaneously refreshing and vibrant. It stands as another testament to the exceptional value of Oakridge's Chardonnay.

Apple and lemon, subtle oak, very good balance and length, should develop nicely with further aging.

A great expression of Chardonnay from the Yarra Valley

Very nice

Very nicely done Pinot noir

Lovely and fresh with just enough toasty oak. A bit of raciness. Yum.