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The Rocket started as an accident - one rogue ferment that took off with more energy than the rest. Michael Downer liked where it went, so he bottled it separately, and a new cuvée was born. Since then, The Rocket has become one of the most distinct expressions in Murdoch Hill’s Artisan range - a Chardonnay that leans hard into precision, drive, and the edgier side of the Adelaide Hills.
The fruit comes from Lenswood, a high, cool site that gives the wine its cut and linearity. Downer runs with it - wild ferment, full malo, careful solids work, and some well-judged oak. There’s plenty of texture, but the wine never feels heavy. Instead, it’s tightly wound, flinty, and full of quiet tension. The 2023 release carries that signature grip and focus, shaped by a long, cool vintage that suited the style to a tee.
It’s a wine for those who like their Chardonnay coiled and contemplative, with a few rough edges in the best possible way.
97 points
"Sleek, sophisticated and sexy chardonnay with white peach, creamed wild honey, flinty funk and electrifying acidity. A rocket ride worth taking."
- Nick Ryan (The Weekend Australian Magazine)
96 points
"Lemon confit, oyster shell, chalk and candied lime meet pineapple, green apple skin and grapefruit pith. Tightly constructed, balanced and vibrant."
- Ned Goodwin MW (jamessuckling.com)
95 points
"Texturally brilliant with chalky grip, mineral sherbet tingle, lemon, grapefruit, white stone fruits and raw cashew. Nuanced and complex."
- Katrina Butler (Halliday Wine Companion)
94 points
"Tightly wound and energetic with green apple, pink grapefruit, lime, flint and talc. Pulverised rock minerality and svelte texture. Refreshing and pure."
- Mike Bennie (The Wine Front)
Price Bracket | $51 to $100 |
Type | White |
Body | Full Bodied |
Variety | Chardonnay |
Country | Australia |
Region | Adelaide Hills |
Australian State | SA |
Reviewed By |
Halliday Wine Companion The Australian The Wine Front James Suckling |
Critic Score |
97 96 95 94 |
Alcohol | 12% |
Size | 750ml |
Vintage | 2023 |
Closure | Screw Cap |
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For orders under this amount, delivery is calculated at checkout based on your postcode. You can order in any quantity or combination of wines you like. Straight dozens are not required.
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Estimated delivery transit time varies depending on your location. Please review this page for specific estimates.
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