2024 Savaterre Frere Cadet Chardonnay

Keppell Smith makes some of the most serious Chardonnay in Beechworth under his Savaterre label, but the Frère Cadet is where things open up a bit. The name means 'younger brother', but this isn't a second-tier wine - it's just a different terroir, sourced from a nearby vineyard and built to be much more approachable out of the gate.

It has all the classic Beechworth markers. You get white peach, grapefruit, and a nice hit of struck match and grilled nuts. On the palate, it has a creamy, mouth-filling weight, but it's kept firmly in check by a great line of acidity and a distinctly salty, mineral grip on the finish.

Keppell reckons this is the best Frère Cadet he’s put together yet, and it's hard to argue. It has enough structure to comfortably sit in the cellar for a few years, but it is so open and delicious right now that there’s really no need to wait. It is a no-brainer if you love Beechworth Chardonnay.

95 points
"A brilliant example of Beechworth chardonnay's undoubted power... remember, it is very much early days for this chardonnay. Comes together well and in perfect tune to close."
- Jeni Port (Halliday Wine Companion)