Langton’s Selections Savaterre Chardonnay, Savaterre Pinot Noir Savaterre is positioned on an elevated site with panoramic views across the King Valley in the rolling countryside of Beechworth. If this vineyard was in Europe, a castle would have been built here. The site is located across the road from Giaconda. In 1996 ex-policeman Keppell Smith established this 440 metre (above sea level) close-planted vineyard on ancient granitic soils. Viticulture follows low input principles and yields are less than two tonnes/acres. Wine making philosophy follows Burgundian techniques with the aid of indigenous yeasts. The astonishingly individual, beautifully concentrated and al-dente structured Chardonnay is matured in 50% new and 50% seasoned tightly grained French oak for (unusually) around 19 months. This is certainly the strongest card in Savaterre’s pack. Indeed it is one of my favourite Victorian Chardonnays. The Pinot Noir is a well concentrated wine with cherry stone/chocolate aromas and plenty of richness and flavour, but it’s powerfully structured and needs time. Savaterre also produces a QED (‘quod erat demonstrandum’) Pinot Noir and Les Enfants Pinot Noir based on younger vine material. Keppel Smith makes great risotto and his wines are brilliant. Andrew Caillard MW, Langton's