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.

The Yarra Valley is one of the heavyweight regions for Australian Chardonnay, with finesse and length of flavour the hallmarks of the regional style. In the glass: Pale lemon green. On the nose: Apple, grapefruit, oatmeal and almond aromas. On the palate: Fine, elegant and poised yet with power and drive and a delicious core of white and yellow fruits. A savoury, almost salty layer adds complexity, velvety texture and racy acidity.

Toolangi is a state forest just outside Healesville that was devastated during Black Saturday. The excellent vineyards remain, and continue to produce wines of personality and place. The Chardonnay combines varietal characters of quince and crab apple with some delicious nutty oak nuances. Its great value.

This is one of the finest Chardonnays produced in Australia. Sourced from vineyards in the High Eden, Mountadam's Chardonnay expresses fruit of peach, nectarine and nashi pear with undertones of spice and nutmeg. A true Chardonnay lovers delight.

Freycinet Chardonnay is a stunning cool-climate example of the varietal. Nutty, toasty barrel ferment aromas are combined with minerally citrus characters and the palate is wonderfully multi layered in flavour underpinned by laser sharp acidity.

Dog Point from Marlborough in New Zealand have quickly established themselves as quality Marlborough producers with their range of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. This Chardonnay has lovely texture due to lees stirring and balanced oak influence. Hints of citrus still remain to produce a Chardonnay of versatility.

High-quality wine, nectarine and white peach driving the initial impetus, grapefruit and acidity the finish; controlled barrel ferment oak the clincher.

Expressive aromas of lemon and grapefruit, with subtle mineral overtones and hints of vanilla and spice. A leaner style of Chardonnay with unusual complexity and interest for this sort of price and which will complement a range of dishes.

Vibrant aromas of stone fruit lifted by hints of raw almond, vanilla and apricot blossom. Fresh white nectarine and citrus leaf feature on the palate with well integrated barrel ferment character. The mouth feel is fleshy and well balanced with natural acidity persisting into a long finish.