The aspiration of Oakridge LVS -- or Local Vineyard Series -- wines is to be outstanding expressions of single vineyards within the Yarra Valley. Local Vineyard Series wines enable wine lovers to compare and contrast the power of terroir and geography in winemaking. In essence, different grape varieties thrive in different soils, and Yarra Valley terroirs and altitudes vary widely. Oakridges expertise and understanding of the region allows viticulturists and winemakers to match a particular variety with a particular site -- with marvellous results. Almost all LVS wines are cellarworthy. The Willowlake Vineyard is just outside Gladysdale in Victorias Upper Yarra Valley. Planted in 1979 at an elevation 300 metres, the cool-grown Chardonnay here ranks with the regions very best. Add the skills of leading Chardonnay exponent David Bicknell and these hand-picked grapes become wines that express their variety and origin with consummate precision and flair.

Margaret River makes some of Australias best Chardonnay and while its home to big names, we think Domaine Naturaliste, a smaller operator, is just as great, so were thrilled to share this with you. In the glass: Bright yellow, green highlights. On the nose: Nectarine, pineapple and lime with deluxe barrel notes.On the palate: Velvety with wonderful harmony and oyster shell and sea spray brightness. Lime juice-like acidity drives the intense yet refined fruit core with complex nuances of nougat and struck match.

This Limited Release Chardonnay from Tumbarumba in Southern NSW is from the esteemed Wondalma vineyard. Limited, because we only make this label in exceptional years, from exceptional single vineyards. It reveals a subtle yet alluring bouquet, with delicate hints of lemon and ginger cream emerging from a backdrop of carefully balanced new and old oak. On the palate, the wine's neatly integrated acidity provides a refreshing lift to its restrained flavours, giving way to a refined and elegant texture. Enjoyable now for its quiet complexity, this Chardonnay will continue to evolve gracefully over the next 5 to 10 years, offering further character as it matures.