Of course, no Beechworth producer's lineup would be complete without a Chardonnay and Simon's is a ripper. It's a full-flavoured, beautifully balanced Chardonnay grown at 500m above sea level. The coolness of the vineyard allows great flavour development whilst retaining crisp acidity. It's Chablis like; grapefruit pith, all that lovely Beechworth minerality and a lovely long saline finish. Gentle Oak integrates letting the fruit shine, resulting in a wine that's super fresh and textural. The Black Springs vineyard has really hit its straps over the last couple of years and will no doubt become a revered site in time. Mendoza and 95 clone, crushed and pressed to 600 litre Stockinger demi muids. Sulphured to avoid malo but all natural acid from a cracking vintage in Beechy. Incidentally no wine from 22 or 23 has had any added acid and for those interested Black Springs and home vineyard have been farmed organically. Simon Grant, Traviarti