Sidewood Estate Chardonnay 2023

Winery Background and History

Sidewood Estate, situated in the cool-climate Adelaide Hills of South Australia, was established in 2004 by Owen and Cassandra Inglis. Since then, it has earned a reputation for crafting site-specific, terroir-driven wines—especially from Chardonnay—blending modern techniques with respect for the region’s elegance.

Producer and Wine Maker

Led by skilled winemakers such as Darryl Catlin, Sidewood employs precision viticulture, including selective harvest and thoughtful fermentation. Their winemaking aims to enhance freshness, texture, and regional expression in their Chardonnay.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Chardonnay grapes are sourced from Sidewood’s estate vineyards in the Adelaide Hills—elevated sites with cool nights, excellent drainage, and well-balanced temperatures that preserve acidity and promote elegant fruit development.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2023 Chardonnay begins with a gentle pressing of hand-harvested fruit. It’s then fermented using wild yeasts in French oak barrels and matured for eight months. Final selection is made rigorously from the barrels. 

Tasting Notes

The wine offers enticing aromas of lime, cashew, and fresh stone fruit. On the palate, it reveals flavors of grapefruit, apricot, and toasted nuts, leading into a velvety texture and a ribbon of crisp acidity. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with dishes such as pork belly, roast porchetta, and mushroom risotto. It also shines simply as a chilled glass on its own. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve well-chilled (10–12 °C) in a white wine glass to showcase its aromatic elegance and textural finesse.

Storage and Aging Potential

Enjoyable now, this wine will continue to develop with careful cellaring, offering complexity over the next few years. 

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 12.5% (comparable to past vintages)