Domenica Chardonnay 2023

Domenica was started in 2012 by Peter Graham, formerly a winemaker at neighbouring Giaconda for 13 years. As it happens, some - a fair bit, of that stardust robbed off on the then young winemaker, who now crafts incredible Chardonnay, sumptuous Shiraz and elegant Nebbiolo, among others, from his own estate and vines.  

The Domenica Chardonnay is without a doubt the most celebrated of the line up, and it displays some of the same richness and deeply layered complexity that one might have come to expect from top Beechworth Chardonnays, but with an added sense of lift and poise. The vineyards were planted in 1996 on the hard granite geology of the region, and on steep south facing sections of the property. Winemaking is solidly old school, with basket pressing, wild yeast fermentation in oak, and no malolactic conversion, to ensure balance and lift to the rich fruit. A mix of new and old, large and smaller oak is used for maturation, and only the finest Stockinger barrels are employed, resulting in a dreamy wine with both complex spice, breadth and incredible texture.  

Drink it now with a bit of air, or cellar it for 5 – 10 years (if you have the patience).