2018 Leeuwin Estate Prelude Vineyards Chardonnay

Leeuwin Estate are arguably Australia’s greatest Chardonnay producer and whilst it’s their Art Series Chardonnay that takes centre stage, their Prelude Chardonnay is often a close reflection of its quality at a quarter of the price. This is never more so in great Margaret River vintages such as 2018.

Entry level Margaret River Chardonnay doesn’t get any better than this.

Brilliant light straw colour with a very faint tinge of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. The bountiful nose sees scents of white peach, ripe nectarines and dried honey leap from the glass with citrusy nougat, subtle crème brulee and light cinnamon notes in hot pursuit. Rich, layered and mouthfilling, fleshy white peach and nectarine fruits decorate the palate marrying into elements of dried honey, faint crème brulee, citrus, delicate cashew and spice. Texturally full and round it still manages to finish with great freshness and exquisite balance. Superb power with a very long cream tinged aftertaste that has a lingering cashew element to it. If this is any indication of the quality from the 2018 vintage we can expect the Art Series Chardonnay to be something truly special.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews….
Leeuwin Estate has the game sewn up with this entry point wine. It's so precise, so balanced, so pure. The distinction between fruit and oak is impossible to gauge, the length magical. Drink by 2030.
96 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion