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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.

Cambria was originally part of the Tepusquet Vineyard. Planted between 1970 and 1971, this ambitious venture helped establish Santa Barbara County as a world-class wine producing region. The Cambria portion of property was purchased in 1986 by Barbara Banke. Today, Cambria is still 100% family owned and the wines are 100% estate-grown. Ripe fruit, floral and spice aromas dominate the nose of the Katherines Vineyard Chardonnay. Grapefruit, pineapple, white peach, citrus blossom, and apple flavors are balanced by a bit of wet stone, subtly oak spice and bright acid.

The palate exudes fleshy primary fruits, layered with nutmeal, lemon butter and brioche. A chalky, mineral texture and fresh citrus acidity continues the bounce.

Of all the premium white wines we sampled last year; it was the Soumah Hexham Chardonnay that rose to the top. This top class Yarra Valley Chardonnay features the perfect amount of oak and a moreish creaminess. Produced from small single vineyard plantings in the Warramate foothills of the Yarra Valley, Soumah Hexham Chardonnay is brilliant now but patience will be rewarded if cellared up to 5 years if you can keep your hands off it that long. One of the real movers and shakers of the industry in recent times, Soumah is without a doubt one to keep a very close eye on. This is a super complex and extremely alluring example. Produced from small single vineyard plantings in the Warramate foothills of the Yarra Valley, outstanding fruit quality works hand in hand with barrel derived complexities. This complexity around a mid to full bodied core lends its self just perfectly to seafood with the traditional butter sauce accompaniment.

The defining Chardonnay of Vasse Felix. It is made from a selection of Chardonnay parcels from Vasse Felixs premier vineyards in a modern Margaret River style with elegance and fruit power. 96 Points | James Halliday.

Gorgeous varietal character with gentle white peach, sweet lemon and pear flavours. Hand-picked, whole-bunch-pressed fruit was fermented cool and blended early to preserve freshness. It is made from estate-grown fruit from the Audrey Wilkinson property. Alcohol: 11%. Closure: screw cap. Date tasted: August 2024. Drink: 2024-2026. Rating: 95/100.