2021 Crittenden Cri de Coeur Chardonnay

The 2021 Crittenden Cri de Coeur Chardonnay is a standout from the Mornington Peninsula, crafted from the Crittenden family’s sustainably farmed, 42-year-old vineyard. This vintage reflects their decades of experience, balancing tradition and modern technique.

A cool, wet spring and a later harvest set the stage for a lower-yielding season, but the ripening conditions that followed produced fruit of remarkable quality. Wild fermentation, gentle lees stirring, and partial malolactic fermentation have given the wine its layered complexity and refined texture. Expect vibrant stone fruit and citrus notes, a touch of toasty oak, and a fine acid line that ties it all together.

Elegant and precise, it’s a Chardonnay that’s just as at home with pan-fried snapper as it is being sipped slowly on its own. A small-batch release that captures the very best of the Crittenden family’s craft.

96 points
"Yellow peach, lemon oil, and cultured butter meet cracked marble, grated nutmeg, and glace ginger in a harmonious symphony of flavors. For true Chardonnay lovers."
- Shanteh Wale (Wine Pilot)

95 points
"A powerhouse Chardonnay, tight and rich with nougat, nectarine, stone fruits, lemon curd, and a creamy, smoky finish. Makes you take notice."
- Campbell Mattinson (The Wine Front)

95 points
"A full spread of stone fruit, lemon, mandarin, ginger fluff cake, and clotted cream with finely integrated oak and a Formula 1 finish."
- Jane Faulkner (Halliday Wine Companion)

95 points
"Struck match, grilled nuts, grapefruit pith, and white flowers with a pithy citrus core, nougat, and just-ripe peach. Fine, focused, and layered."
- Aaron Brasher (The Real Review)