Established in 1858 by English immigrant Edward Tyrrell, Tyrrell’s Wines is one of Australia’s pre-eminent family owned wine companies with vineyards extending from their historic home in the Hunter Valley to the Limestone Coast (SA) and Heathcote (VIC). Headed up by fourth generation family member Bruce Tyrrell, Tyrrell’s is home to some of Australia’s most awarded wines including the iconic Vat 1 Semillon. Since 1971, Tyrrell’s has been awarded over 5,000 trophies and medals and in 2010 was named “Winery of the Year” in James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion. With the fifth generation, Chris, Jane and John, involved in the business, Tyrrell’s will continue to remain family owned with the simple philosophy of producing high quality wine that people love to drink.

Vat 47 Chardonnay comes entirely from our Short Flat Vineyard where the original Chardonnay vines were planted by Murray Tyrrell in 1968. The soil profile in this dry-grown vineyard is unlike that of any of our other vineyards, which gives Vat 47 its unique character.

A strong Vat 47, with the nose showing intense citrus and white stone fruit characters and a hint of oak in the background. The palate is powerful, yet elegant, and the Short Flat Vineyard character shines through. Grapefruit and lemon citrus along with some spice and creaminess. This is then balanced by textural elements derived from the solids ferment and extended time on yeast lees. A Vat 47 of great depth and power, yet still maintaining a lively and fresh finish.

An established star in the Australian wine landscape, and rightly so, for its purity, complexity and power. Made from hand-picked grapes sourced entirely from the Short Flat vineyard, planted by Murray Tyrrell. The lemony fruit is intense and the palate is beautifully expansive, textural and deeply satisfying, with barely perceptible savoury winemaking details that embellish and enrich the wine without a shred of dominance. The flavours build to an impressive crescendo, finishing with remarkable purity, energy and deliciousness. An outstanding chardonnay – one of Australia's best. Pure class. Date Tasted: Dec 2024; Alcohol: 13.5%; Drink to: 2035; Price: $110.00; Rating: 98 Points; James Halliday Wine Companion