De Bortoli, ‘Willowglen’ Chardonnay, 2024, Riverina (GI)

'One-Liner'
A fresh, gently rounded Australian Chardonnay with ripe peach, melon and citrus, softened by creamy texture and a subtle touch of nutty oak.

Tasting Note
Pale straw in colour, with ripe peach, melon and quince joined by lemon zest, a delicate mineral note and a subtle hint of toasted hazelnut. The palate is medium-bodied and softly textured, with lees contact bringing a gentle creaminess while bright citrus acidity keeps the wine fresh and lively. Light oak sits quietly beneath the fruit, leading into a clean, rounded finish with lingering melon, citrus and mild nutty spice.

Country: Australia
Region: New South Wales
Sub-Region: Riverina GI
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
ABV: 12.5%
Friendly: Vegan, Vegetarian, Sustainable

Awards & Critics' Scores
Silver Medal – Global Chardonnay Masters

The Story
The De Bortoli family’s story began in the Riverina in 1928, when Italian immigrant Vittorio De Bortoli used an unexpected surplus of local grapes to make wine for the European farming community around Griffith. Nearly a century later, the family’s Bilbul winery remains at the heart of the business. Willowglen reflects the generous, approachable side of Riverina Chardonnay, with ripe orchard and melon fruit given freshness by an early-picked character, while light oak and time on the lees bring a softly creamy texture and just enough nutty complexity.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Salmon fishcakes with lemony crème fraîche and a green salad
- Vegetarian: Creamy tarragon mushrooms on toast
- Vegan: Roast cauliflower steaks with almond, lemon and parsley dressing