Special wine tastings which reveal the beauty of this much-loved variety will abound in May for Chardonnay May. For example, wineries such as Murdoch Hill, Ashton Hills, Lofty Valley Estate and Howard Vineyard will offer tasting flights including older wines to show how Chardonnay develops over time. Somerled will offer past vintages by the glass at their cellar bar. And rare back vintages are being opened for one weekend only at Tappanappa, the birthplace of Adelaide Hills Chardonnay at the famed ‘Tiers Vineyard’ planted in 1979.
Alex Trescowthick, President of Adelaide Hills Wine Region says, “As the state’s premium cool climate wine region, the Adelaide Hills is the source of South Australia’s most sought-after Chardonnay. During May, we invite everyone to taste an outstanding Adelaide Hills Chardonnay at your favourite bar, restaurant, or bottle shop. Most of all, we hope you will visit at least one cellar door and talk to the people behind these stunning wines.”
Most wineries will also unveil their new release 2023 Chardonnays during May, providing fans the first opportunity to taste the latest vintage. Excitedly, Tilbrook Estate will unveil their new Reserve Chardonnay: the first release after the devastating 2019 bushfire.
Chardonnay themed parties also promise to bring a bit of fun to the month. It is a French affair at Simon Tolley cellar door during the day on Sunday 5th May, while Anderson Hill harks back to the decade when Chardonnay was on everyone’s lips with two 1980s themed nights.
The best Chardonnays from across the region will be highlighted in one sumptuous dinner at Fourth Hill Providore at Verdun on 9th and 10th May. The Adelaide Hills Chardonnay Heroes – part of the Tasting Australia program and which sold out last year – will be held over two nights to accommodate the huge demand.
Adelaide Hills’ Chardonnay May runs 1st to 31st May 2024.
