2025 Ashbrook Estate Chardonnay, Margaret River

Ashbrook Estate has been quietly making some of Margaret River's most consistent wines since the Devitt family planted their first vines in Wilyabrup in 1975. The third generation continues to produce wines from estate vineyards that are managed with a long-term view of soil health rather than short-term yield.

Ashbrook's Gin Gin clone Chardonnay vines date to 1976 cuttings sourced from the state nursery in Swan Valley. Additional blocks planted in the early 1980s included one established with cuttings from Leeuwin Estate.

2025 was another trouble-free year for Margaret River growers. Half of Ashbrook’s Chardonnay was fermented in new French oak barriques and the balance in stainless steel. Both portions rested undisturbed on lees for eight months. Malolactic fermentation was avoided, a choice that keeps the primary fruit character vivid and the freshness intact.

The house style is consistent and well-established — stone fruit, citrus and oak spice on the nose, with a fine texture and bright natural acidity carrying the fruit to a clean, focused finish.

This Chardonnay is built on restraint rather than richness despite the clear oak derived characters coming through. Its freshness and fine texture suit anything where the cooking lets the main ingredient speak for itself: a simply grilled whole snapper with ginger, spring onion and soy or steamed chicken with ponzu and daikon.

Drink now through 2033.