Vintages New Release Collection – April 26, 2025

With its vast coastline, rolling hills, lush valleys, and soaring mountain peaks, the Australian state of Victoria is stunningly beautiful. And, due to its distance from the equator, maritime influence, and alpine areas, “Vic” (as the locals call it) is also a cool-climate wine region comparable to those of northern France, Ontario, Oregon or South Africa. Like these regions, Victoria specializes in cool-climate varieties such as Pinot Noir and Riesling along with Aussie staples Chardonnay and Shiraz. The region’s complexity of topography and soils makes for elegant, expressive wines that elicit comparisons with the classic wines of Europe.

INNOCENT BYSTANDER CHARDONNAY 2024 Yarra Valley, Victoria, vegan

A bright green gold. A fruit-driven wine with aromas of ripe stone fruits and a little freshly cut pear. The palate is similarly fruit driven and this finishes well for a wine at this modest price point. Drink by: 2027. Special Value. Score: 90 (Philip Rich, winecompanion.com.au,

Jan. 2, 2025) Light & Crisp 280206

(XD) 750 mL $20.95 2

VINTAGES 17