The event, which had corresponding activities in a number of other cities, was a great way for consumers to get involved and taste a range of Chardonnay styles, regions and producers.

A few of us eager early-bird guests were lucky enough to help out the team at Coast to sort the amazing array of wine, we were tempted to hide a few of the bottles for ourselves – but that would have been unfair on the rest of the guests given the quality of wines on show.

With the event held in Sydney, there was a healthy showing of NSW Chardonnay from the Hunter Valley and Orange but of course, state rivalry kicked in and wineries from across the country included their wine for tasting.

The Yarra Valley, Geelong, Mornington Peninsula and Pyrenees were well represented in Victoria; while the Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale and the Eden Valley dominated the South Australian table.

Not to forget some outstanding wines from Western Australia with Chardonnay from Margaret River and Mt Barker receiving glowing reviews.

Tasmania was also on show and somehow, our rivals from across the Tasman even got in on the act with several New Zealand wines opened for tasting.

The event was all about showcasing what we love about Chardonnay in Australia.  We all know that Chardonnay is often called a viticulturalist’s “dream” and with the depth of variety and styles on show at this event, it certainly lived up to its reputation.

There were some generous, oaked Chardonnays from across the country but it was also great to see the new style of this variety displaying delicate aromas and finesse.

Australian Chardonnay varies so much from region to region and all of this was on display at Chardonnay day in Sydney – and the associated events around the country.

There were the opulent fruit flavours of peach, fig and melon displayed among the warmer climate wines; while citrus and grapefruit were elegantly on show in the cooler climate Chardonnay.

Australian Chardonnay is experiencing somewhat of a renaissance in style and popularity.  And if the feedback from this tasting is anything to go by, our Chardonnay is among the best in the world.

As with any wine tasting, there is always a secret “stash” and we discovered the VIP table of wines towards the end of the night.  These were 9 wines that Nick Stock had selected as his “best of the best”.  The list included:  
• 2009 Penfolds Reserve Bin 09A
• 2009 Bindi Quartz 
• 2009 Vasse Felix Heytesbury
• 2009 Oakridge 864 
• 2008 De Bortoli Reserve Yarra Valley 
• 2008 Eden Road Tumbarumba
• 2009 Freycinet Chardonnay 
• 2009 Yabby Lake Block 1 Chardonnay
These wines highlight some of the more modern styles of Chardonnay that are emerging – some big producers, some small – and from a range of different Australian regions.

Now, it is over to you – what is your favourite A+ Australian Wine Chardonnay?