2023 Leeuwin Estate Prelude Chardonnay, Margaret River

I tasted it at the winery last Friday, prior to a little vertical of LEAS Chardonnay 2021, 2020, 2018, 2016 and 2015. This gets about 30% new oak.
It’s the best Prelude I can remember tasting, I’ll say that much straight off. A little struck match, very spicy (some pepper and cinnamon), bright citrus and green pear, hazelnut, fine flinty grip, with a cool finish of excellent length. Fine-boned, but delivers just enough flavor. I was so taken by its balance and charm. Superb drinking.

95 points Gary Walsh thewinefront.com.au

It has been said many times that there are plenty of wineries – from Margaret River and elsewhere – which would love to have a wine of the quality of Leeuwin’s Prelude as their flagship Chardy. Perhaps especially so in this vintage where the wine really is stellar. Fermentation was with a mix of cultured and wild yeasts, with full barrel fermentation in French oak, with 40% of that new, followed by ten months maturation. A gleaming yellow, the nose is exhibiting notes of stone fruits, peaches, a hint of cashews and oatmeal, and lemon touches. There is a gentle oak influence, the handling of which is the same standard we see with the Art Series, as well as exemplary balance and fine grip. The texture is alluringly supple and there is very good length. Flagship quality indeed. Drink now and for six to seven years – this is seriously good value.

94 points Ken Gargett winepilot.com

There would be a lot of wineries who would love to have this as their top chardonnay. But of course, Leeuwin has that little matter of Art Series above it. This really is one of the best and most complete of this line. Seems to have struck a nice balance between the early more opulent styles and some of the later leaner styles. The vintage has helped but the fruit is so pretty with typical cashew, light grapefruit and a little lemon character supported by such exquisitely applied oak. Very good. $44. Cellar: 7 years

94 points Ray Jordan, rayjordanwine.com.au

Leeuwin Estate Prelude Chardonnay is a celebrated expression of Margaret River’s exceptional winemaking. Founded in 1974 by Denis and Tricia Horgan, Leeuwin Estate is one of the region’s most renowned wineries, recognized globally for its commitment to quality and its iconic Art Series wines. The Prelude range offers an accessible yet premium experience, crafted by esteemed winemaker Tim Lovett, who brings a modern touch to classic winemaking techniques.

This Chardonnay is vibrant and elegantly structured, with aromas of white peach, citrus blossom, and subtle oak. On the palate, it reveals layers of nectarine, lemon curd, and a hint of vanilla, supported by a crisp acidity and a long, mineral-driven finish. A versatile wine, it pairs beautifully with seafood, creamy pasta dishes, or roast chicken.