Lightfoot 2022 Chardonnay

Sometimes a wine takes you utterly by surprise.

This one did just that.

Gippsland is a huge region with equally huge variations in microclimates and terroir.

There aren't that many wineries and those that do penetrate Gippsland's bountiful essence are spread far and wide.

Near Bairnsdale is little Lightfoot.

Their latest 2022 Chardonnay is a ripper wine.

Barrel fermented, toasty lees-y character. Peachy (keen), lush long finish with toned minerality.

It's an exemplary cool climate example of what Australia can do very well with Chardonnay. This Gippsland smooth operator risks over-delivery of goodness but who would complain about that?

Try the classic combo: oysters.

Or quick pan fried scallops with a lemon cream sauce. Or on cauliflower purée with crisped pancetta bits on top.

Or lightly grilled calamari with a splodge of ajvar.

Or barbecued spatchcocked chicken with a salsa verde.

Or poached salmon with sorrel sauce.

Or a chunk of Parmesan Reggiano and your best sourdough bread.

We could go on but why not just buy some and make your own clever match?