Savaterre really needs little introduction.

From their vineyard on the Beechworth-Wangaratta Road, just across from Giaconda, Keppell Smith produces some of Australia's most powerful and sought-after Chardonnay.

The location, alongside Keppell's refreshing and rigorous vineyard and winemaking principles, makes each Savaterre release perfectly poised to stand among the great Chardonnay wines of the world.

The 2023 release is a firm reminder of this. In the glass, this is about as good as Chardonnay gets. As always with this wine, there is a limited quantity, and it rarely lasts on the shelf beyond the week of release. Get in quick.

"Bright medium-light yellow colour; aromas of matchstick/gunflint reduction overlying grapefruit/citrus and biscuit nuances. In the mouth, very intense flavours of tightly focused but generously proportioned citrus/grapefruit and smoked charcuterie—impressively deep and very long-lasting. A great chardonnay of terrific refinement and formidable power. 16 Feb 2025" - 98 Points, Huon Hooke, The Real Review

"A double wow kind of chardonnay, such is the level of deep concentration and the purity of flavour and delivery. Shows a sophisticated side, complex in construction and taste, led by white peach, nectarine, grapefruit pith and peel, spice and a savoury almond influence that lifts both aromatically and flavour-wise. Walks, as ever, a fine line between generosity and fineness, the latter winning the day with some scintillating tangy acid drive in place. And the best part? This still has a long, long journey ahead." - 97 Points, Jeni Port, Halliday Wine Companion