2024 Flametree SRS Wallcliffe Chardonnay, Margaret River

Pungent struck-flint aromas come at first sniff, classy oak is evident, with an assortment of nutty nuances, while the palate is refined and subtle with a quiet intensity that builds along the line, from entry to fnish. Lively grapefruity acidity underpins the liveliness of the wine, which has substantial weight and richness as well as refinement. Oak plays a major role at this tender age, but it's a very smart wine that promises to reward keeping. 09 Sep 2025 Drink 2025–2035

95 points Huon Hooke therealreview.com

From a tightly defined Wallcliffe vineyard close to the Indian Ocean, this Chardonnay is Flametree’s most focused and site expressive white, built around purity, tension and long ageing potential. The SRS range represents small batch selections from the estate’s best parcels, and Wallcliffe’s gravelly loam soils combined with strong maritime influence deliver fruit of natural intensity and striking acidity. Long, even ripening under Margaret River sunshine builds flavour without heaviness, giving a style that leans toward precision and mineral drive rather than overt richness.

Winemaking is geared toward restraint and structure. Whole bunch pressing, wild fermentation and extended lees contact build texture and depth, while oak is used as a fine frame rather than a dominant flavour. The aim is a Chardonnay that feels architectural and coastal, with energy and shape that carry well beyond the first sip.

In the glass it shows pale gold with green flashes. Aromas are layered and tightly wound, opening with lemon zest, grapefruit pith and white peach, followed by flint, crushed shell, cashew and a faint struck match character. There is a saline lift that immediately signals proximity to the ocean, alongside delicate floral notes that add finesse.

The palate is powerful yet controlled, with citrus and stone fruit wrapped around a firm, chalky texture. Acidity is bright and linear, driving the wine long through the finish, while oak sits seamlessly in the background adding savoury spice and structure. The finish is persistent and mineral, leaving impressions of citrus oil, wet stone and sea spray. This is a Chardonnay built more on line and tension than softness, rewarding attention and time in the glass.

At the table it excels with lobster, scallops, grilled fish, roast chicken, pork with butter and herbs, or creamy seafood dishes. While impressive now with air, it is built to cellar for ten to fifteen years, developing nutty, toasty and savoury complexity while holding its coastal spine. A serious Margaret River Chardonnay that marries power with finesse.