Product Information:
The Tapanappa Tiers Vineyard 1.5M Chardonnay 2024 stands proudly alongside its older sibling, the 2023 Tiers Old Block, embodying the exceptional terroir of the Tiers Vineyard in the Piccadilly Valley. Produced from a unique section of the vineyard planted with French Bernard clones 76 and 95, the 2024 vintage delivers an earlier ripening, fuller-flavoured Chardonnay, distinguished by its close spacing and low fruiting wire. This small, high-quality block has been separately bottled since the 2015 vintage, highlighting its distinctiveness and the complexity it brings to each release. The 2024 Tiers 1.5M Chardonnay reveals a striking green-yellow colour, a captivating aroma of kiwi fruit, nectarine, and pear, and an intense, full-bodied flavour profile. With its trademark Tiers texture, balanced acidity, and crisp grapefruit finish, this wine is an outstanding example of the vintage and an exceptional representation of the Tiers Vineyard’s unique character.
Maker:
Tapanappa is the product of a vision that spans decades and generations. Founded by Brian Croser, one of the pioneers of the Adelaide Hills wine scene, Tapanappa continues his legacy of innovation and quality that began with the creation of Petaluma. Tapanappa’s story is one of dedication, commitment, and passion, which has shaped the modern wine culture of the region. After Petaluma was taken over in 2001, the Croser family retained ownership of their home and the iconic Tiers Chardonnay vineyard, the birthplace of what would become Tapanappa.
In 2002, Brian and his wife Ann, in partnership with the Cazes family of Château Lynch-Bages and Bollinger Champagne, established Tapanappa. The French partners stayed with the winery until 2014 when the Crosers regained full control of the Piccadilly Valley winery and cellars, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the Tapanappa story. Today, the winery is run by Brian’s daughter Lucy and her husband Xavier Bizot, with their son-in-law Sam Barlow overseeing winemaking. Their hands-on involvement ensures that Tapanappa’s wines continue to reflect the values of the Croser family: precision, authenticity, and respect for the land.
The name “Tapanappa” is deeply tied to the philosophy that guides the Croser family’s approach to winemaking. Derived from the 550-million-year-old geological formation beneath the Fleurieu Peninsula, it means “sticking to the path” in the local Aboriginal language. This philosophy is evident in their vineyard selection process—by carefully matching climate, soil, and geology to the right grape varieties, Brian Croser has ensured that each wine is a true expression of its terroir. Tapanappa’s commitment to authenticity is reflected in their meticulous approach to viticulture and winemaking, creating wines that honour their origins while embracing innovation.
Vineyard:
Tapanappa’s vineyards are nestled in some of the most distinguished terroirs of the Adelaide Hills, each site chosen for its unique climate, soil composition, and geological characteristics. The iconic Tiers Chardonnay vineyard remains a cornerstone of the winery’s production, offering wines of exceptional complexity and finesse. Located in the heart of the cool-climate Piccadilly Valley, the Tapanappa vineyards benefit from the region’s unique geology, which is crucial to the development of their distinctive, world-class wines.
The Piccadilly Valley, where the Croser family has made their home, is recognised for its cool climate, which creates the perfect conditions for producing wines with freshness, structure, and elegance. The land’s diverse geology, including ancient soils from the 550-million-year-old Tapanappa formation, plays a key role in shaping the character of the wines. These vineyards are farmed with care, prioritising sustainability and minimal intervention, allowing the natural terroir to shine through in every bottle. With a focus on environmental stewardship and sustainable practices, Tapanappa’s vineyards are cultivated to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the unique wines that this remarkable land produces.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
Vibrant & Aromatic
A lively blend of kiwi fruit, nectarine, and pear, enhanced by subtle brioche and cinnamon complexity from the oak and yeast influence.
PALATE
Intense & Full-Flavoured
Ripe fruit flavours of kiwi and nectarine dominate the palate, balanced by the signature texture of Tiers Chardonnay and a refreshing, crisp finish.
FINISH
Crisp & Lingering
A persistent length of flavour with a finishing cut of grapefruit and quince, showcasing the wine’s acidity and structure.
Reviews + Accolades:
Will shine following a decade in cellar. - Tom Kine, Wine Pilot - 95 Points
It's tense, tight and built for the ages. - Regan Drew, Vino Notebook - 95 Points
Very precise and energetic - Mike Bennie, Halliday Wine Companion - 96 Points
Long and with real presence. - Aaron Brasher, The Real Review - 96 Points
Floral and fine, creamy and detailed. - Erin Larkin, Robert Parker Wine Advocate - 94 Points
A complex wine at the start of its life. - Jeni Port, Wine Pilot - 96 Points
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - Australia
Region - Piccadilly Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2024
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13.7%
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