Chardonnay 2022 – Black Market Deal #46940

This Chardonnay showcases a unique fusion of Margaret River's naturally round, full-bodied character with French winemaking finesse. The use of 30% new French oak and extended lees ageing creates a more structured, mineral-driven profile than many Australian Chardonnays. While maintaining the region's signature richness, it displays greater acidity and complexity, offering both immediate appeal and excellent cellaring potential.

Wild yeast fermentation allows the wine's terroir to express itself more authentically, as native yeasts carry the unique microbial signature of the vineyard site. This traditional technique often produces more complex flavour compounds and textural nuances compared to commercial yeasts. The result is a Chardonnay with greater depth and individuality, contributing to the wine's distinctive mineral complexity and sophisticated character.

With its structured backbone from French oak and extended lees contact, this Chardonnay is built for medium to long-term cellaring. The combination of natural acidity, mineral complexity, and quality oak integration suggests it will develop beautifully over 5-8 years. The wine's current freshness will evolve into more complex honeyed and nutty characteristics, while maintaining its elegant structure throughout its drinking window.

The wine's rich texture and oak influence make it perfect for creamy seafood dishes like lobster thermidor or pan-seared scallops with cauliflower puree. The cashew and honeysuckle notes complement roasted chicken with herbs, while the mineral backbone cuts through rich cheese-based dishes. The lemon brightness also pairs beautifully with fresh oysters or grilled fish with citrus butter.

Whole bunch pressing involves pressing the grapes with stems still attached, which is a premium technique that extracts juice more gently and selectively. This method reduces harsh tannin extraction and preserves delicate aromatics, resulting in cleaner, more refined juice. The stems also act as natural filters, contributing to the wine's elegant structure and helping maintain the bright acidity that balances this full-bodied Chardonnay's richness.