2023 Domaine Naturaliste Floris Chardonnay, Margaret River

Gosh, Floris is charming this vintage. Pared back and refined, but charming nonetheless. A light showing of grapefruit and white nectarine, a flutter of ginger powder and gossamer-like creamy lees. Oak a mere backdrop. Moreish and savoury, and superb now, yet will last some distance.

95 points Special Value Jane Faulkner winecompanion.com.au

Domaine Naturaliste Floris Chardonnay from Margaret River is a beautifully lifted and finely detailed expression of the region's cooler southern vineyards. Crafted by acclaimed winemaker Bruce Dukes, this wine is all about purity, floral aromatics, and a shimmering line of acidity that gives it brightness and precision. Floris means flower in Latin, and this Chardonnay truly lives up to its name with delicacy and freshness at its core.

Sourced from sustainably farmed vineyards near Karridale, where the ocean-cooled climate allows for slow, even ripening, the fruit maintains exceptional natural acidity and aromatic clarity. The soils are gravelly loam over clay, giving the wine subtle mineral drive and texture.

Bruce Dukes treats Floris with a light touch in the winery. Grapes are handpicked, whole bunch pressed, and wild fermented in large-format oak and concrete eggs to preserve vibrancy and build subtle texture. There’s no malolactic fermentation, keeping the style crisp and focused.

In the glass, it opens with notes of white blossom, lemon zest, crushed oyster shell, and a hint of green apple. The palate is pure and linear with citrus and white stone fruit at its core, framed by gentle lees texture and a chalky, saline finish that lingers long after the last sip.

Floris is a sophisticated, modern Margaret River Chardonnay for those who love restraint, elegance, and a clean, mineral finish. It pairs beautifully with fresh seafood, sashimi, or a light chicken salad with citrus vinaigrette.