2023 Vasse Felix Margaret River Filius Chardonnay
![92 Points 92 Points](https://www.caros.co.nz/media/option_image/points-icons-92.png)
Grape
Chardonnay
Its Origins
As the moderate climate of Margaret River is becoming Australia’s centre of premium winemaking, Vasse Felix are leading the pack in recognition and can, in fact, lay claim to having been there first. It was the founder Dr Thomas Cullity whose planting experiments were confirmed when in 1966 experts identified Margaret River as a near homoclime (same climate as) Bordeaux. Luckily those commissioning the studies, and the local newspaper that published the details, had no idea how significant they were, and in 1967 Cullity had little competition in finding the best site - which he cleverly did in redgum country with red gravel above and clay lying below. Here at Margaret River’s first vineyard, Vasse Felix, he planted Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Malbec and Riesling. The latter variety was to be the label’s first success (in 1972), showing the white wine promise of the cooler Margaret River, which is now as famous for Chardonnay as it is for Cabernet Sauvignon. Regarding Cabernet itself - which is the winery’s flagship - the acknowledged experts at Vasse Felix have a distinctive take on this variety, revealing the elegant and aromatic nature of the grape so that that at times it seems to compare as much to Burgundy as it does to Bordeaux. With an established reputation but also the strictest artisanship and organic, sustainable practices - including being on the cutting edge of industrial recycling - Vasse Felix are not only masters of their art, but stayers in the game.
What The Critics Say
Winemaker notes on current 2023 vintage
"Bright pale straw in colour. Harmonious fine fruit with savoury complexities. Bright on the nose with citrus peel, green apple, nashi pear, white peach and nectarine with undertones of jasmine, grapefruit pith and limestone. The palate is creamy and soft, yet focused, showcasing lemon curd, grapefruit and green pawpaw. There is a pristine freshness to this wine revealing a saline mineral edge and a beautiful balance. The finish is fine, delicate, savoury and long with an intriguing soft chalky texture."
93/100 and Editor's Choice in Wine Enthusiast, Christina Pickard (2021 vintage)
"The entry level Chard from Margaret River's oldest estate is a steal, and a stellar intro to this West Aussie style. Delicate and seamlessly integrated notes of lightly toasted hazelnut and cream lead, with a salty sea breeze vibe. The pineapple, melon and preserved lemon notes take supporting roles. It's beautifully balanced, the crunchy acidity neatly juxtaposing the textural weight. Finessed with polish and craftsmanship, but also utterly drinkability now. Editors' Choice."
93/100 James Suckling (2021 vintage)
"A white of solid fruit with white peaches, apple and hints of vanilla and oak. Medium to full body, creamy texture and a flavorful finish. Lots going on here."
Variety | Chardonnay |
---|---|
Region | Western Australia |
Closure | Cap |
Volume | 750ml |
Maturity | 2024 - 2032 |
This Wine Goes Well With
Taste
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If for any reason you are not entirely happy with your order or you suspect that they may be affected by a quality issue, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will remedy the problem straight away. Contact us on 0800 422 767.
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