2024 Rocky Road Chardonnay

All the hallmarks of Margaret River Chardonnay leap from the glass: grilled peach, nougat and orange blossom abound.

The palate delivers both freshness and complexity with a saline acidity complementing complex notes pastry and roasted almonds. Barrel fermentation and extended time on fine lees provide depth and a creamy texture to this flavourful wine.

Vineyard: Sourced from a selection of premium sites across Margaret River, including our own estate vineyards and fruit from trusted long-term growers. Each site was chosen for its ability to contribute specific elements to the final blend—whether it’s aromatic lift, mineral drive, or structural precision. This collaborative approach allows us to craft a layered and expressive wine that reflects the broader character of the region.

Vintage 2024 marked the earliest harvest on record at McHenry Hohnen. A wet winter followed by a warm, dry spring encouraged healthy vine growth and early fruit set. Summer brought consistently dry conditions and high diurnal temperatures, with veraison occurring 2–3 weeks ahead of average.

An exceptional Marri blossom season meant no bird pressure, and with no disease risk, fruit quality was pristine. The white harvest was fast-paced and compressed, resulting in wines with expressive fruit, texture, and freshness—Chardonnay and Marsanne Roussanne stood out.

Red varieties ripened swiftly, with the final pick on 18 March—nearly a month earlier than 2023. Yields were lower, but quality was high, delivering reds with structure, concentration, and vibrancy.

Grapes were sourced from our younger estate vines and trusted growers in southern Margaret River. Harvested in the cool morning hours, the fruit was gently pressed and settled overnight in tank. Fermentation took place in large-format oak casks and seasoned barriques using a combination of wild and cultured yeasts. No malolactic fermentation was encouraged. The wine was matured on lees with regular stirring until bottling in spring, resulting in a fresh, vibrant style with layers of texture and complexity.