2024 Woodlands Wilyabrup Chardonnay, Margaret River

This is a precise and pure expression of Margaret River chardonnay. Light-bodied with fine chalkiness, it’s complemented by crisp acidity that drives through a long palate. Floral notes lift the nose with lemon curd and subtle roasted cashew. The palate is linear, and the fruit has easily managed nine months in oak. Fermented without additions, it delivers a pure, pristine expression of the variety. Drink to 2031.

92 points Ray Jordan, Wine Review 2026

An exotic nose of lemon blossom, grapefruit zest and oyster shell, with notes of aromatic sandalwood and light reductive flint. A savoury, umami note reminiscent of roasted chicken skin runs through the soft and lilting palate. Acidity is restrained, appearing as a chalky footnote on the finish, framed by cedary oak. Drink to 2031.

92 points Melissa Moore for The Real Review, January 2026

The 2024 Chardonnay Wilyabrup Valley is fine and fresh, offering citrus rind and melon aromas, while fennel seed oak adds definition. The palate is flavorsome, with a creamy, crowdpleasing texture and a lively zip of acidity on the finish. Drink to 2030.

90 points Angus Hughson for Vinous, January 2026

Woodlands was established in 1973 by David and Heather Watson. It was one of the first five vineyards to be planted in Margaret River, today drawing fruit from the original Caves Road vineyard as well as the nearby Woodlands Brook vineyard, both in the northern Wilyabrup sub-region and the latter somewhat further away from the coast. The vineyards cover 28 hectares and are dry-grown and hand-tended. The original Woodland vineyard is today certified organic, while Woodlands Brook is organic-in-conversion, with viticultural practices at both sites also including nods to biodynamic principles. Woodlands remains a family-owned producer, with brothers Andrew and Stuart Watson continuing their parents’ work.

The Wilyabrup Valley tier of wines blend fruit from two estate vineyards and drink well on release. Margaret River experienced its driest and warmest growing season of all time in 2024. This reduced yields, but the quality of fruit was excellent.

This wine opens with lifted aromas of citrus flowers and zest grounded by subtle toasted spice and nougat notes, and a light flintiness. Flavoursome and creamy, it’s medium-bodied, with savoury notes and a refreshing balanced acidity.

Chardonnays are a joy to have on hand at dinner parties, with freshness to lift lighter flavours but enough texture to carry richer food. Try with Vietnamese lemongrass chicken or grilled mulloway with lemon and herbs.