2024 Rosily Chardonnay, Margaret River

Every time I see wines from this superb and yet under the radar estate from Margaret River, I come away amazed that they are not far more widely known and hyped, and that their wines remain such brilliant bargains. Déjà vu! From thirty year old vines and the Wilyabrup sub-region, this delicious Chardy spent nine months maturing in French oak, 40% of which was new. Just 12% underwent malolactic fermentation, adding to the freshness and bite of the wine. The wine has a yellow hue with flecks of green throughout. The nose exhibits notes of pineapple, lemongrass, ginger and peaches. Well balanced with a deft touch of oak and some spicy touches. A youthful style with a lingering finish, this will provide pleasure for at least the next five to seven years. Drink to 2032.

93 points Ken Gargett for Wine Pilot, February 2025

Rosily Vineyard is a 12-hectare site located in the northern Wilyabrup sub-region of the Margaret River and named after a French cartographer involved in the French explorations of Western Australia in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

The first vines were planted in 1995 using cuttings from the Moss Wood vineyard, and the site has been certified organic since 2019. The soil types vary across the sloping property from deep gravelly loams to lighter sandy soils over a clay base, with twelve varieties matched to the soil and the style of wine sought. Vineyard manager Sam Castleden knows each one intimately, as he planted the first ones.

Sam’s annual work is brought to bottles by long term winemaker Mike Lemmes, who after a few years of brewing ciders returned to Rosily in time for the 2023 vintage. All wines are made from estate grown fruit.

Margaret River experienced its driest and warmest growing season of all time in 2024. While yields were slightly down, the quality of fruit was excellent. This wine was barrel fermented, the final blend incorporating only a small amount of wine that was allowed to go through malolactic fermentation. The wine was matured for nine months in mostly seasoned French oak, with 40% new each vintage.

Inviting aromas of stone fruit, citrus, white flowers with subtle warming spice notes. Bright and youthful, the harmonious palate builds steadily and finishes with light creamy cedar and spice notes.

Perfect for a casual lunch, with the brightness and fruit balancing the crunch of Flathead and Chips, or the salty and earthy notes of Chicken Saltimbocca.