In 1873 French judges, tasting blind, praised wines from Australia, but withdrew when the provenance was revealed, saying that wines of that quality must clearly be French. Vines have been grown successfully in Australia since the 1820s as European settlers realised that the Mediterranean climate was ideal for viticulture.

One of the world’s most popular grapes, Chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, sparkling Blanc de Blancs to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak.

Depending on how ripe the grapes get, the flavour ranges from crisp, clean citrus and green apple, to ripe peaches and tropical fruit. Notable Chardonnays can be found in France, California, Australia, England, and beyond. 

Charlie's love of wine started at a young age, his Mum and Dad run Kangarilla Road and he was literally topping barrels and had his own ‘toddler’ sized hand plunger at age three.

His approach to winemaking is simple. He treats the vineyard with respect, from the soil to the grape. Excellent winemaking starts with outstanding fruit.