There are new wine releases, and then there are milestones. This one is the latter.
We're thrilled to be one of the first stores in the country to stock the brand-new Pannell Family Chardonnay 2025 - the first ever white wine to be released under the Pannell Family label, and the first entirely new wine the Pannells have crafted in a very long time.
For a family synonymous with some of Australia's most respected reds, that's a genuinely exciting departure.
A New Chapter, Grown at Home
This vintage is 100% estate grown, hand-picked, and made entirely on-site by the Pannell family themselves, right down to the aging on French oak. It's about as hands-on and true-to-place as a Chardonnay gets - every step, from vine to bottle, kept within the family.
The fruit comes from the Picardy site in Pemberton, a region already well known for producing Chardonnay with real finesse. In Pannell hands, that regional signature has been given its own distinct expression.
What the Critics Are Saying
The wine has already picked up glowing early reviews from two of Australia's most respected palates.
Ray Jordan, WA Wine Review, described a wine that captures the character of both vintage and region, praising its refinement alongside a steady build of intensity on the palate. He noted delicate floral and citrus notes on the nose with a subtle nuttiness, and found the palate deceptively light before it builds to a long, purposeful finish — calling it, in his words, a wine "of impeccable breeding."
Ambrose Nock was equally taken with this debut release, noting that it looks set to follow in the footsteps of the family's acclaimed Pinot Noir by offering both high quality and exceptional value. He described a wine led by generous stone fruit, layered with honeysuckle, ginger, and citrus pith, with restrained oak and bâtonnage letting the fruit's purity shine through. His verdict: a fine debut that is both elegant and friendly, while staying true to the Picardy house style.
Why This Bottle Matters
For long-time fans of the Pannell name, this Chardonnay isn't just a new SKU on the shelf - it's a rare first. A family known for building a reputation vine by vine, vintage by vintage, has turned its attention to white wine for the very first time, and the early reviews suggest they've nailed it straight out of the gate.
Estate grown. Hand-picked. Made on-site by the family whose name is on the label. There's a lot to like here even before you pull the cork.
Stock is limited as one of the first releases of this brand-new wine - available now while supplies last.
