Clairault Margaret River Chardonnay 2023

Vineyards

17% Ironstone Vineyard, Wilabrup
64% Bridgeland Vineyard, Karridale
19% Clairault Vineyard, Wilyabrup

Growing

The cooler growing conditions at our southern Bridgeland Vineyard combined with the Clone 5 chardonnay planted here provide desirable characters for this wine. We blend in a little extra Clone 5 from our Clairault Vineyard and also a portion of Gingin Clone chardonnay from our Ironstone Vineyard to delivers additional depth. 

Winemaking

The fruit for our Chardonnay is harvested and pressed as both whole cluster and cold crushed fruit, in order to sculpt wines boasting great length, texture and sophistication, as well as density of fruit and a bold complex palate. The juice is barrel fermented in roughly 40% new, 30% 2nd fill and 30% 3rd fill French oak barriques. It is then aged in oak for 9 months.

Vintage 

The growing season began with a cool and relatively dry spring. Summer turned on at the right time with warm even temperatures, setting the scene for gentle and consistent ripening across all varieties. It was another great vintage, with the seasons all playing their part. The biggest challenge for 2023 was pressure from birds due to a lack of Marri blossom and the drawn out nature of the vintage. Rains in April danced with cabernet sauvignon picking dates. Fortunately, early leaf plucking and the strong skins of cabernet sauvignon meant we were rewarded with fruit of exceptional intensity and fine tannin. Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are also standout varieties for 2023.

Aroma

Nectarines, brioche, lemon zest and merengue 

Palate 

Lifted tones of white pear, grapefruit and lightly toasted cashews introduce a palate laced with crystalline natural acidity and fine white tannin. A poised finish of wet slate, hints of struck match and unwavering structure. 

Cellaring

Up to 8 years, however we enjoy it for freshness now.

Alcohol 

13%