Koonara Wines Daisies & Dandelions Mount Gambier Chardonnay 2024 is a tribute to balance, sustainability and precision cool-climate winemaking, crafted in Kongorong — one of Australia’s coolest grape-growing regions. The name celebrates the daisies and dandelions that flourish naturally in the vineyard, playing a vital role in soil health and biodiversity, reflecting the eco-conscious philosophy behind this limited-release premium Chardonnay. Only produced in ideal growing seasons, this wine represents meticulous barrel selection by winemaker Peter Douglas, who will only bottle the finest parcels if they meet his exacting standards. The previous vintage was Highly Rated by The Real Review and Halliday Wine Companion, reinforcing its pedigree among serious Australian cool-climate Chardonnays.

Matured for six months in 100% new 300L White Burgundy French oak hogsheads, the wine is pale in appearance yet strikingly complex. A thoughtful 50/50 fermentation approach sees half the wine undergo full malolactic fermentation, creating creamy lactic texture, while the remaining portion is wild fermented to preserve crisp pink lady apple freshness and mineral precision. The result is seamless harmony between richness and tension — a modern, savoury Chardonnay that delivers both depth and drive in equal measure.

On the nose, citrusy grapefruit, toasted nuts and fine vanilla oak unfold with elegance, while the palate layers creamy texture with vibrant acidity and a distinct mineral backbone. Flavours of white peach, subtle blossom and gentle vanilla glide through a long, refined finish that lingers beautifully. This is cool-climate Mount Gambier Chardonnay at its most poised and contemporary, pairing effortlessly with grilled lobster, roast chicken with thyme butter, creamy mushroom pasta, seared scallops or triple-cream brie where its texture and freshness work in perfect balance. A sophisticated, limited-release Australian Chardonnay built for both immediate enjoyment and short-term cellaring.