Cat & Frank Chardonnay 2025

Cat & Frank brings together Catia D’Anna and her father Franco, the winemaker behind Hoddles Creek Estate. Having grown up among the family’s vineyards, Catia gained experience at Brokenwood and Craggy Range before developing her own wines under Franco’s guidance, with a focus on fruit from the Upper Yarra Valley.

The 2025 Chardonnay combines citrus, grapefruit and white flowers with mineral freshness and the subtle influence of second- and third-year oak. Bright acidity gives it focus, while gentle texture adds depth through the finish. Tim White awarded it 94 points, highlighting apple and white nectarine flavours, peach-skin texture and its balance of “edginess, but also lustre.”

"The second vintage from this bright new label from Franco and Catia D'Anna. Light, bright green gold, with gentle stone fruit, grilled nuts and subtle marine notes leading onto a well-balanced, fresh palate. A touch of grip on the finish gives the wine focus and length."   

94 Points & Special Value Star. James Halliday Wine Companion

"Excellent for quality and value. Buy. It has flavour and race, (just enough) texture and excellent length. All for $30. Pears, nectarine, hints of honeysuckle and sloshy green apples, candied citrus and cedarwood, but not too much of the later. It will be better again in another 12-24 months but it’s good now, no problems." 

 93 Points. Campbell Mattinson. The Wine Front.