Place: Gladysdale — Yarra Valley, VIC

Variety: Chardonnay

Farming: Sustainable

Honky Chateau is the vinous stage name of long-time sommelier and all-round nice guy Chris Ryan. He has been the head wine buyer at venues like Cumulus and Cutler & Co., and is now trying his hand at making wine with great success. 

This charmingly named chardonnay comprises two barrels—one from Willow Lake the other from De Bortoli. The inviting creaminess on the nose carries through into the mouth, lifted by freshness of citrus pith and blooming white flowers.