Producer Australian Chardonnay has had a renaissance in the last decade, and it's makers like Adrian Rodda who are to thank for it. Adrian spent 10 years under the tutelage of David Bicknell at Oakridge in the Yarra Valley. He then relocated his family to Beechworth to take over the lease of the Smith's vineyard and start his label, A. Rodda. Adrian's primary focus is on Chardonnay, making one each year from Beechworth, one from the Whitlands and one from the Yarra, in addition to Tempranillo and a Bordeaux blend. His wines are always captivating but uncomplicated and express the fruit and the land in which it's grown honestly and clearly. Tasting Note 2022, Whitlands Bright, elevated scents of red apple and white flowers transition to a broad, textural mouthfeel, with flavours of fresh cream, almond, and some light mealy notes. Some bright acidity runs through to the finish. "Friand and spice, floral, melon and grapefruit. Firm acidity, a little green apple, distinctly flinty and chalky, with something of a sappy-sour-edged, yet also slightly creamy almond finish of good length. Pretty tight, but very nice." - Gary Walsh, The Wine Front
