2024 Vasse Felix Chardonnay, Margaret River

A slightly more generous style of chardonnay, showing richness and concentration while retaining fine linear precision. Minerally lemon curd with a savoury edge, intense and sustained. One of the best under this label.

95 points rayjordanwine.com.au

One of the defining Chardonnays of Margaret River, this wine captures the region’s coastal tension and quiet power. Vasse Felix works fruit from its original Wilyabrup holdings where gravelly soils and Indian Ocean influence shape a style built around structure and line. The estate has championed Chardonnay since the 1970s, refining a house signature that favours precision over weight. Each vintage aims to express clarity of site rather than overt winemaking.

The approach in the cellar is detailed and patient. Whole bunch pressing protects delicacy, wild fermentation builds complexity, and extended lees contact adds texture without blurring acidity. Oak is integrated as a framework, contributing savoury nuance instead of sweetness. The result is layered and architectural, designed to evolve.

Pale gold in colour, the aromas open with white peach, grapefruit and lemon curd layered with cashew, flint and gentle spice. The palate is medium bodied and tightly coiled, with citrus and stone fruit wrapped in bright acidity and a creamy yet disciplined texture. Flavours run long through a mineral finish that feels precise and mouthwatering.

It pairs beautifully with seafood, roast chicken and butter rich sauces. Impressive now with air, it will cellar confidently for ten to fifteen years, gaining nutty and savoury complexity.