The Eleven Chardonnay is grown on the vineyard immediately out front of the Montalto cellar door/restaurant. This vineyard was planted in 1986, which is eons ago in Mornington Peninsula terms. ‘The Eleven’ refers to the fact that there are only eleven rows of chardonnay growing there, or at least eleven rows with this vine age. It’s chardonnay clone P58. These vines are nothing special to look at or, indeed, to hear their various specs. But they obviously love the site, and are at home there. They grow good chardonnay grapes.

This release smells and tastes of popcorn and pears, citrus and white peach, though perfectly integrated cedarwood oak plays a positive role too. There are cashew notes here as well, and it all feels juicy and generous, in a well mannered way. This will likely add another string or two to its bow as it ages but really, it’s singing a fine song now, and is already ripe for drinking. -94pts, Campbell Mattinson for The Wine Front

Detailed as ever, layers of interest peel back with ease. Butterscotch, praline, buttered popcorn, barbecued peach, toasted cashews and hazelnuts - what an intro. There is an even-handedness with a little generosity too. Toasted brioche, a lemony tang with the suggestion of dehydrated pineapple and a lick of mango, there is plenty here to consider. Almond meal tacks onto the tail and that finish seems unstoppable. It’s an excellent wine that will reward for many years yet. -95pts, Gold, QWine Review