2023 West Cape Howe Styx Gully Chardonnay, Mount Barker

A light, chalky, vibrant chardonnay that leans into green stone fruit characters, nashi pear, gingery spice, green mango and some rice bran and light nougat notes. Quietly complex, with a good extension of flavour and a general sense of deliciousness. This finer-boned style is executed well. Drink to 2030.

92 points (Special Value) Mike Bennie for Halliday Wine Companion, January 2025

A leaner and tighter expression of chardonnay than was the norm under this label previously. Its all about freshness and energy. Citrus and melon with a muted cashew character on the nose. The palate is finely balanced with penetrating finish promoted by a crisp chalky acidity. Has a little white flower and lime influence adding complexity.

92 points Ray Jordan Wine Review 2026

Light to mid straw colour; very reserved aromatically, with hints of straw, malt and fresh bread, while the palate is lean and singular with straightforward citrusy flavour and clean lines, lingering into a refreshing finish. Drink to 2033.

90 points Huon Hooke for The Real Review, January 2025

Grapes for the Styx Gully Chardonnay are night picked from West Cape Howe’s Langton vineyard blocks 3 and 25. The 2023 wine was fermented in oak, with 40% of the barrels new for the vintage, and was not allowed malolactic fermentation.

About this producer

West Cape Howe is a family-run winery in Mount Barker based at the Langton vineyard established in 1978. The home vineyard fruit is complemented by fruit sourced primarily from Frankland River and the Porongurup, as well as the Perth Hills.