2022 Deep Woods Estate Reserve Chardonnay, Margaret River

The quality of the 2022 vintage meant that very little fruit got downgraded from the Reserve level. The quantity in this low-yielding vintage was healthy (1,000 dozen with new vineyard resources online). I maintain that this cuvée is released too early (November the year following harvest) to show its pedigree and potential, of which it is abundantly endowed. So, this 2022 Reserve Chardonnay leads with almond meal, toasted peach, apple skins and preserved citrus. There are hints of sandalwood, clove, cut fennel and star anise. The fruit in the mouth plumes around the skeleton of phenolics that shape the flavor through the finish. It is textural and complex, detailed and fleshy. This is very good! Will be better! 

95 points EL robertparker.com

Pale straw with flashes of brilliant green. The nose is complex and alluring showing a flinty minerality of river stone, sea breeze and chipped shell woven together with ripe citrus and a rich, nutty undertone. The palate is a triumph of medium-bodied power and persistence. Intense flavours of scratched lime, white nectarine and peach roll in layers across the tongue. Fine-grained oak underpins the expressive Gin Gin clone characteristics with a delicious, chewy texture drawing out the long finish.

With its state-of-the-art winery, Deep Woods Estate is at the frontline of producers leading a new wave in Margaret River. With a talented team that combines traditional and modern winemaking techniques, Deep Woods has become arguably Australia’s best and most consistent producer of Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, as well as the biggest producer of Rosé in Western Australia.