Clairault MR Chardonay

Clairault Margaret River Chardonnay

WHY WE LOVE IT

  • Clairault Chardonnay is aged in oak for 9 months and batton-aged every two weeks, after which the wine is removed from barrel, clarified and bottled.
  • Cellaring up to 8 years, however we enjoy it for freshness now.

Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay

Elaboration: The fruit for our Chardonnay is harvested and pressed as both whole cluster and cold crushed fruit, in order to sculpt wines boasting great length, texture and sophistication, as well as density of fruit and a bold complex palate. The juice is settled cold and racked after 2 days, harvesting only the lightest and most delicate grape solids to further aid in textural and aromatic development. The juice is barrel fermented in roughly 40% new, 30% 2nd fill and 30% 3rd fill French oak barriques. A portion of wine is allowed to undergo malolactic fermentation, to broaden the palate and add additional complexity to both the aromatics and the texture of the wine. The rest is sulphured pre-malolactic fermentation, in order to further preserve fresh fruit aromatics and pure acidity. It is then aged in oak for 9 months and batton-aged every two weeks to develop texture and additional palate complexity, after which the wine is removed from barrel, clarified and bottled.

Tasting Notes: Peaches, cream, nutmeg and crushed lime. Balanced entry of dense stone fruit and lively citrus flavors. Coating acidity and fine texture lead to a finish of nectarines, toasted nuts and lemon curd.

PRESS

2019 – 91 James Halliday

2018 – 91 Wine Enthusiast | 91 James Halliday

2017 – 95 James Halliday | 92 James Suckling | 91 Wine Advocate | 91 Wine Enthusiast

PRODUCER BACKGROUND

Clairault-Streicker Wines are a family of premium wines, crafted from privately-owned vineyards in the Margaret River Wine Appellation of Western Australia. Since 1976, the vineyard has grown to encompass the diverse climate and soil conditions of three renowned sub regions. Their portfolio includes a trophy winning, cold-climate Streicker Syrah, outstanding single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays and the exceptional wines of the original Clairault Vineyards.

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