Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay 2021

Drink now or cellar for up to 9 years.. Serve chilled. This stunning Chardonnay is arguably the finest white wine being made in Australia today. This is the flagship wine of the Leeuwin Estate in Margaret River which was one of the region’s modern pioneers. The property was purchased in 1969 by Denis Horgan, a businessman from Perth, but it was only three years later that the estate’s potential was realised after a visit from the great winemaker Robert Mondavi. A combination of an exceptional microclimate and low yields have made Leeuwin one of Australia’s top wineries. The fruit for this bottling is sourced from Block 20 Vineyard which is over 40 years old and is dry farmed. Once in the winery the grapes are vinified in French oak barrels with regular battonage, or stirring of the lees, to add a rich, creamy texture and extra complexity. The young wine is then matured in the barrel for 11 months before the different lots are blended, fined and bottled. The result is an incredibly pure and focused flavour profile with hints of lemon, pear and lime on the nose accompanied by cardamon, chamomile and cinnamon notes. On the palate there is a generous full body, well-rounded texture, and very long finish with hints of toasted nuts and oyster shell. The powerful character makes this a great match for creamy fish, chicken or pasta dishes as well as a variety of cheeses.

Price: £93.38 from 8wines UK