Kirkton Estate, ‘The Matilda’ Chardonnay, 2025, Hunter Valley (GI)

'One-Liner'
A generous Hunter Valley Chardonnay with ripe melon, stone fruit and lemon, rounded by creamy oak and a gently nutty finish.

Tasting Note
Vibrant gold in the glass, with ripe melon and white peach joined by fresh lemon, honeysuckle and a subtle flinty note. The palate is generous and rounded, bringing together juicy stone fruit, buttery toast and gently creamy oak, while bright citrus acidity keeps everything balanced and lively. Smooth and full of flavour through the finish, with lingering lemon, toasted nuts and a restrained savoury edge.

Country: Australia
Region: New South Wales
Sub-Region: Hunter Valley GI
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
ABV: 13.5%
Friendly: Sustainable

Awards & Critics' Scores
n/a

The Story
Kirkton Estate is closely woven into the early history of the Hunter Valley, beginning with the Busby family and one of the region’s pioneering vineyards. At its height, the original property was home to hundreds of grape varieties, including what is regarded as Australia’s first positively identified Chardonnay. The Matilda continues that connection with the grape, using fruit from mature vines and a combination of stainless-steel and oak fermentation. For the 2025 vintage, a measured use of French oak brings toast, creaminess and a subtle smoky complexity, while the Hunter Valley’s natural freshness keeps the ripe melon and stone fruit firmly in focus.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Lemon-herb roast chicken with new potatoes
- Vegetarian: Creamy tarragon mushrooms on toast
- Vegan: Roast cauliflower steaks with almond, lemon and parsley dressing