2024 Murdoch Hill Rocket Chardonnay

The Rocket originally started as an accident - a single rogue ferment that took off with so much energy Michael Downer decided to bottle it separately. Today, it stands as one of the most distinct wines in Murdoch Hill’s Artisan range, representing the edgier, tightly wound side of Adelaide Hills Chardonnay.

Now in its eighth release, the 2024 vintage is sourced from the elevated, cool slopes of Lenswood. Downer leans hard into precision and drive here. The fruit undergoes a wild ferment and full malolactic fermentation, maturing in 45% new oak with careful solids work to build texture.

Despite the serious oak and full malo, the wine never feels heavy. It is tightly coiled and flinty, leading with lemon pith, brown lime, and white stone fruit. The palate is focused and linear, driven by a fine, pithy grip, subtle struck-match complexity, and a mineral acidity that carries through a long, dry finish. It's a contemplative Chardonnay built entirely on tension.

98 points & No.4 in James Suckling's Top 100 Wines of Australia
"Flashy, minerally and restrained aromas of grilled lemons, struck match, salted nuts, citrus blossoms, phosphorus, oyster shells and honeysuckle. The palate is tightly wound, with excellent density of fruit cut through by electric acidity and bright, tense clarity that leaves a mouthwatering finish of oatmeal plus savory and saline undertones. It’s hard to believe this is 100% malolactic given the high-voltage, energetic drive. This is truly excellent and all class."
- Ryan Montgomery (James Suckling)