Is this Australia's best Chardonnay? If not then it shares the rarified air reserved for only the finest examples. Rich yet restrained, with mineral notes, cashew and almond meal, amazing fruit complexity and wonderful length...why not try the benchmark?

Laurent Ponsots new company is a stage in a wide-ranging project that began four decades ago. In this different format, Laurent Ponsot continues to use his experience, his craftsmanship and his passion to serve the terroir of Burgundy. The company Laurent Ponsot is neither a domain nor a maison: its a state of mind. To create an exceptional wine is the equivalent of designing luxury goods. Haute couture is how we have decided to describe these incredible wines, like unique designer pieces, made even more glorious through our experience and craftsmanship. There are several schools of thought on the etymology of Meursault without any clear winners, but according to one theory, its wines are so brilliant that they compete with the sun: Meurs soleil! Its aromatic power and exceptional balance between richness and acidity make this one of the great wines of Burgundy.

This Premier Cru is found mid-slope on the border between Meursault and Puligny-Montrachet. The slope is very regular at between 3% and 6% and the soil is clay/limestone with red earth. The subsoil is a mixture of earth and flat volcanic rock which allows an extensive root system to develop. These conditions bring finesse and a touch of minerality to the wine.

Pale gold with hints of green, PerrierJouët Blanc de Blancs awakens the senses with enticing aromas of hedgerow flowers elderberry, acacia and honeysuckle and tangy citrus. On the palate, its mineral freshness lingers into a surprisingly smooth, mellow finish, which adds to the charm of this delightfully lively, luminous champagne.

HARTFORD WINES Hartford Court Sevens Bench Chardonnay, Carneros

100% Chardonnay grapes. Les Beaux Cailloux (meaning the beautiful pebbles) is only made in the best years and represents the very best of the vintage. A complex, refined and serious wine that is capable of cellaring for lengthy periods developing even further in the bottle.