As you may imagine, of all the varieties, Chardonnay scoring 97 Points are the most sought after. Despite over thousands of reviews there are still relatively few that climb the mountain that is 97 Points. What we have here is the StarDozen: 97 Point Chardonnay Collection featuring 3 bottles each from 4 renowned producers, representing the best Chardonnay spots from the Yarra Valley, Margaret River and the Adelaide Hills. This is a brilliant snap shot of some of the best Chardonnay outside of Burgundy!

The StarDozen consists of the following:

3 bottles      Giant Steps Tarraford Vineyard Chardonnay 2022
3 bottles      Paralian Bowyer Ridge Vineyard Chardonnay 2024
3 bottles      Brookland Valley Reserve Chardonnay 2023
3 bottles      Wills Domain Paladin Hill Margaret River Chardonnay 2024

Giant Steps Tarraford Vineyard Chardonnay 2022
The warmest site among Giant Steps' four single-vineyard chardonnays, though planted on a cool, south-facing slope in Tarrawarra. Whole-bunch pressed and barrel fermented in French puncheons (25% new) with 10% mlf. An engaging and lovely wine. Opens with subtle scents of pink grapefruit, orange blossom and coriander seeds. Builds nicely on the gently textured, saline and structured palate before finishing zesty and long. The sort of wine that begs you to take another sip. Date: Jan 2023; Alcohol: 13%; Price: $80.00; Drink by: 2027; Rating: 97 Points & Special Value Star; James Halliday Wine Companion

Paralian Bowyer Ridge Vineyard Chardonnay 2024
This is one of the best chardonnays of the year and, even at $55, is one of the best value. It screams quality and would compete, easily, with wines at double the price, if not more. It was grown on the Bowyer Ridge vineyard in the Adelaide Hills, and while it’s flavoursome, fresh and complex, the soaring sling of the finish really sets it apart. Wow for the win. Flint, white peach, cream, chalk, woodsmoke and more: this wine has it all going on. Alcohol: 13%; Price: $55.00; Closure: Screwcap; Rated: 97 Points; Campbell Mattinson

Brookland Valley Reserve Chardonnay 2023
This is the top of the wazzer chardonnay and comes from an outstanding season. It is one of the best yet under this label. It was put together with largely traditional techniques after hand picking, including whole bunch pressing and barrel fermentation before extended lees work. On the nose subtle notes of gun metal and struck match overlay deeper notes of butterscotch and vanilla bean. The palate is lavishly rich and textured but then tightens with a fine acidity and excellent use of oak. Retains a pristine feel throughout. Drink to: 2025-2032; Price: $80.00; Alcohol: 13.5%; Rating: 97 Points; Ray Jordan

Wills Domain Paladin Hill Margaret River Chardonnay 2024
This is impeccably composed and exquisitely expressed, showing apricot, rockmelon, vanillin oak, and savoury pastry nuances on the nose. The concentrated palate is powerful and refined, with outstanding depth and persistence. Superbly framed by creamy texture and perfectly pitched acidity, finishing wonderfully long and captivating. At its best: 2027 to 2039. Date: April 2025; Price: $85.00; Rating: 97 Points; Wine Orbit