2022 Bass Phillip "Premium" Chardonnay Gippsland Victoria

Professional Reviews

Notes

Bass Phillip Wines is one of Australia’s most revered producers of Pinot Noir, located in the cool-climate region of Gippsland, Victoria. Founded by Phillip Jones in the 1970s, the estate became known for its low-intervention approach and its ability to produce wines with remarkable finesse and aging potential. Over time, Bass Phillip developed a cult following, often compared stylistically to top producers from Burgundy due to its emphasis on terroir and subtlety. This Burgundian connection became even more direct when Jean-Marie Fourrier, of Domaine Fourrier in Gevrey-Chambertin, took over ownership and management in 2020. Fourrier is widely respected for his minimal-intervention philosophy, including the use of natural yeasts and reduced sulfur, which aligns closely with the traditions already established at Bass Phillip. His involvement has strengthened the stylistic bridge between Gippsland and Burgundy, bringing a refined European perspective to an already iconic Australian winery. While maintaining the estate’s identity, Fourrier has introduced subtle changes in vineyard and cellar practices to further enhance precision and purity. The collaboration highlights a rare cross-hemisphere exchange of winemaking philosophy, rooted in a shared respect for site expression.