Founded in 1979 by the late Phillip Jones, Bass Phillip is one of Australia's most iconic wineries and is widely regarded as a pioneer of fine Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in Gippsland, Victoria. From its inception, the estate embraced organic and later biodynamic farming, focusing on low yields, mature vines and minimal-intervention winemaking to produce wines that reflect their cool maritime terroir.

In 2020, ownership passed to the Jean-Marie Fourrier family of Domaine Fourrier in Gevrey-Chambertin, Burgundy. Fourrier has retained the estate's philosophy while refining viticulture and cellar practices, bringing an even greater emphasis on purity, precision and finesse. The Estate Chardonnay is sourced from mature vines planted on deep, mineral-rich volcanic and sedimentary soils in South Gippsland, where the cool climate allows for slow ripening and exceptional natural acidity.

Made from 100% Chardonnay, the 2023 Estate Chardonnay is fermented with indigenous yeasts and matured in French oak barrels (approximately 20% new oak) with extended lees ageing to build texture while preserving freshness.

The cool 2023 growing season has produced a Chardonnay of remarkable restraint and energy. Aromas of lemon zest, white peach, grapefruit, green apple and citrus blossom are layered with subtle notes of hazelnut, struck flint and oatmeal. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine, creamy texture balanced by vibrant acidity and pronounced mineral tension. Concentrated citrus and stone fruit flavours are complemented by delicate oak spice, leading to a long, saline and finely structured finish. The style is distinctly Burgundian, favouring elegance and precision over richness.

" A Chardonnay of exceptional detail and finesse, combining restrained citrus fruit, subtle struck-flint reduction, creamy lees texture and mouth-watering acidity. Layered, elegant and built for long-term cellaring. " -- Halliday Wine Companion, Jane Faulkner

" Stylish, offering a compact core of melon, granitic and chalk dust aromas lifted by fine oak and gunflint. Acidity is masterfully managed and well-integrated with vibrant citrus flavours, delivering a finely tuned finish with impressive length." -- Vinous, Angus Hughson

" A rich gold hue... gentle aromas of lemon, melon rind and toast. The palate is beautifully textured—satiny and mouthfilling—with a cream-and-toast underbelly. Elegant now, but capable of ageing for a decade or more." -- Wine Enthusiast