2023 Cobaw Ridge Chardonnay

Situated 610 meters above sea level and overseeing Central Victoria, the Cobaw Ridge vines thrive in the granite-rich mountain soil, working hard to produce well-balanced grapes. This unique site's challenges, combined with the Cooper's dedication to sustainable and natural practices, result in wines that truly reflect their origin and time. No additives, fining, filtration, or stabilization are applied, except for minimal sulphites before bottling. The grapes are whole bunch pressed, settled overnight in a tank, then transferred to French oak (25% new). A slow, natural fermentation occurs in the barrel over 12 months, followed by an additional 3 months in a tank to settle on the lees. Full malolactic fermentation takes place, and the wine is not filtered, with only a small SO2 addition.

Other Reviews....
The biodynamic stalwarts. Alan and Nelly Cooper, grow outstanding chardonnay. This we know.
The endorphin rush. It’s there. A palpable joy drinking this. It’s the chiseled texture and juicy, bright, saline minerality that sticks around as the memory. Medium to full in character but very, very refreshing. A distinct yellow stone fruits thing going on with a lemon verbena and lemongrass character in that mix. It’s awesome. In this, very light honeycomb notes, a touch of white chocolate, vanilla bean, green almonds and hazelnut savouriness. So even, so persistent, if not gently palate-sticking in character. Complex. Compelling. Complete. Double down on proper character of chardonnay, not tricks and chicanery, just so. Jittery and excited as I sip. Drink 2024 - 2032.
97 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front