2022 Swinging Bridge Hill Park Chardonnay

96 POINTS

Erin Larkin - Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2022 Hill Park Block Chardonnay is rich and sleek, and the fruit almost exotic in the mouth, were it not for the saline acidity and chalky phenolics. This is quite distinct from the Caldwell Chardonnay tasted alongside, and it isn't just because they are a year apart; the styles of the wines are individual, this being more powerful and nutty. It is excellent. The acidity, while remaining pronounced, feels a little more integrated in this wine than the former. It is tremendous. 12.7% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

95 POINTS

Shanteh Wale - Halliday Wine Companion

White pineapple hull, plantain, lemon pith, nectarine and acacia blossom. Marcona almond and wild limes. Energetic acidity carries the white-fleshed fruit, which then gathers a crème fraîche richness. This is a chiselled wine, throwing facets of dazzling lights in all directions. There is lots going on, and whilst drinking very well now, this will pull together and get better in the bottle.

93 POINTS

Angus Hughson - Vinous

The 2023 Chardonnay Hill Park is well made and delivers a compact core of lemon peel and lime leaf aromas supported by fine-grained oak, with gentle savory, nutty tones peeking through. Eye-watering acidity provides a strong opening, while the wine retains a streamlined, linear shape through to a finish of exceptional length, accented by chamomile and crushed nut complexity. So young and tight, demanding cellar time to build and show its best.