Frequently Asked Questions
This is a full-bodied, concentrated Chardonnay that showcases the bold Margaret River style with its rich, creamy texture and tropical fruit flavours. Unlike lighter, unoaked styles, it delivers substantial palate weight with minerality and struck match undertones that come from careful winemaking techniques. The combination of citrus acidity and creamy mouthfeel creates the perfect balance between power and elegance that Margaret River is renowned for.
The exceptional 97-point Wine Orbit score and 95-point Ken Gargett rating reflect the wine's outstanding concentration, length, and complexity. Critics particularly praise its mineral backbone and the way it balances richness with fresh citrus acidity. The struck match character indicates skilled use of reduction techniques during winemaking, creating layers of complexity that distinguish premium Chardonnays from simpler expressions.
The wine's creamy texture and tropical fruit flavours make it perfect for rich seafood dishes like lobster thermidor or pan-seared scallops with butter sauce. Its minerality and citrus acidity can handle roasted chicken with herbs, while the full body stands up beautifully to creamy pasta dishes or aged hard cheeses. The struck match complexity also complements dishes with subtle smoky elements.
Serve this Chardonnay slightly chilled at 10-12°C to showcase its full-bodied character without masking the complex flavours. As a 2024 vintage, it's drinking beautifully now but premium Margaret River Chardonnays like this can develop additional complexity over 3-5 years when stored properly in a cool, dark place. The wine's concentration and acidity structure suggest it will reward patient cellaring.
The struck match aroma is a hallmark of quality Chardonnay winemaking, typically resulting from reductive techniques that preserve the wine's freshness and create complex mineral characters. This sulphur-like note, also found in premium Burgundies, indicates careful oxygen management during fermentation and aging. It adds an intriguing savoury dimension that balances the wine's rich fruit flavours and demonstrates the winemaker's skill in crafting a sophisticated, age-worthy Chardonnay.
