Woodlands Wines Chardonnay Wilyabrup Valley 2023 750ml

ABOUT The Wilyabrup subregion of Margaret River is widely acclaimed by industry pundits as the source of Australia’s finest Chardonnay. Woodland’s consuming ambition is to create wines that emulate the great vineyards of the world. The power and opulence of Wilyabrup in comparison to the rest of Margaret River allows for a rich and structured Chardonnay. 2023 was another classic vintage, perfect for Chardonnay. Flowering conditions were excellent, and thereafter conditions remained warm and dry throughout the growing season. Once harvested and in the winery, the fruit was sorted and gently destemmed before being gently pressed. A small portion of this wine was also pressed as whole bunches, adding finesse. Ferments proceeded in French barriques without additions, with some malolactic fermentation occurring though not promoted. Following fermentation, 50% wine remained in 300L Hogs Heads and 500L Puncheons for 10 months, 30% of which being new, and the remaining 50% went to stainless-steel tanks. After six months aging, the lots were blended to tank to settle, coarsely filtered and bottled without fining and with an addition of sulfur. DATA Grapes: 100% Chardonnay Vineyard: Woodlands Estate Vineyard - Woodlands Brook Vineyard - Select sites in the Wilyabrup Valley Vine Age: Average: 25-years-old Soil Type: Laterite topsoil and gravel subsoil Viticulture: Certified organic (Woodlands Estate Vineyard) - Practicing organic (Woodlands Brook Vineyard) - Sustainable (Wilyabrup Valley) Fermentation: Native – French barrique (partial whole-bunch pressed) Skin Contact: None Aging: 10 months in 50% French barrique (30% new) and 50% stainless-steel Alcohol: 13% pH: 3.34 Total Acidity: 5.4 g/L Total SO2: 126 ppm Total Production: 6,500 cases UPC: 9336111000211 TASTING NOTE Pale gold in color. Initially shy, it blossoms with yellow peach, apricot, and nectarine aromas. The palate offers ripe orchard fruits, elderflower, and grilled cashews, balanced by crisp citrus acidity. PRESS Vinous | 92 Wine Enthusiast | 94