The finest parcels of fruit are selected for the Cullerin wines, and this Chardonnay displays complex aromas of grapefruit zest and just ripe nectarine fruits and cashew nut oak. The palate is textural and multilayered; a dance between the fruit and fine, balanced acidity and a long mineral, nutty finish. An outstanding example of modern, cool-climate Chardonnay from the Canberra District.

Opposite the mysterious Lake George, at the foot of the Cullerin range outside of Canberra, is Lerida Estate. This site was selected in 1997, following the local wisdom of legendary CSIRO scientist Dr Edgar Riek. The facility is a marvel of architecture designed by Glenn Murcutt and built in 2005. The roof is an iconic iron woolshed design, bold enough to be recognised from afar. At the heart of it all, is a remarkable multifunction cellar that is as fit to entertain as it is for making fine wine. Thankfully the wines more than meet the expectations with award-winning Pinot Noir, Shiraz Viognier, and an elegant range of whites. While the original focus was Pinot Noir, the flag bearer is now Shiraz, most notably the Shiraz Viognier blend. Also grown on-site are Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Since 2017, with renewed confidence in the Canberra Wine Region, Lerida has expanded beyond its Lake George sub-region to include premium fruit from nearby regions, including Hilltops, Orange and Tumbarumba. The future is bright for Lerida, the offerings have diversified to suit the demand, but the objective remains to produce stylish wines from low-yielding vineyards with minimal intervention techniques.