This is not your typical Australian Chardonnay. It’s a clean, crisp and fresh wine made by young gun Charlie O’Brien, and it’s a good example of the modern Adelaide Hills style.

The 2020 “Cloudy but Fine” is made from A-grade fruit from a low-yielding vineyard. Charlie chose not to stabilise the wine, because he felt it dulled the character. That decision is why the wine is cloudy in the glass. It’s a deliberate choice, not a fault.

Aromatically it’s all pear at first, moving from ripe fresh pear through to dried pear and something a little spiced. There’s citrus too, with lemon and lime notes giving lift. On the palate it’s layered and textured, with a round, creamy feel balanced by clean acidity. Alongside the pear you get citrus, stone fruit and a lightly steely edge, finishing long and bright.

Food Pairing

This works well with roast chicken, grilled pork, or richer fish dishes where you want freshness but also a bit of texture. It’s also a good match for creamy pasta, or dishes with lemon and herbs, where the wine’s acidity keeps things in line.