2025 Xanadu Chardonnay, Margaret River

The first ’25 chardonnay off the rank. It is a good one and bodes well for the top-end releases later. This is flinty and fine, with very pure flavours of lemon, grapefruit, tonic water and just a hint of chargrilled pineapple. The palate is superfine, and the finish lingers. While so youthful today, this promises to be even better with time under its belt.

95+ points Special Value Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion

Another cracking chardonnay with delightful purity, minerality and bright floral notes on the nose. It was barrel fermented with wild yeasts before spending nine months in oak, during which the barrels were stirred regularly. The result is a wine of impressive complexity, evident in the subtle cereal notes on the palate, complemented by oyster shell minerality and light stone fruit characters. An elegant wine of great poise.

94 points Ray Jordan Wine Review 2027

Xanadu has been one of Margaret River's most respected wineries since its establishment in 1977. Under the direction of chief winemaker Glenn Goodall, the estate has earned an outstanding reputation for Chardonnay, producing wines that combine the region's generous fruit with freshness, elegance and beautifully judged oak. Their estate Chardonnay consistently delivers impressive quality and character.

The 2025 draws on Margaret River's maritime climate, where warm days and cooling ocean breezes help Chardonnay develop flavour while retaining natural acidity. Careful barrel fermentation and maturation contribute texture and subtle complexity without overwhelming the fruit.

Pale straw yellow with delicate green highlights. White peach, nectarine and ripe grapefruit mingle with lemon curd, toasted cashew and a hint of flint. The palate is beautifully balanced, with juicy stone fruit, bright citrus acidity and a creamy, finely textured middle. Gentle oak spice and savoury nuttiness carry through a long, refreshing finish.

Try it with grilled snapper and green olive salsa, roast cauliflower with tahini and lemon, or crab linguine with chilli and parsley. Its combination of richness and freshness also makes it a lovely partner for roast chicken with tarragon.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2033. Delicious for its youthful fruit, with the structure to develop further nutty and savoury complexity.