Flametree S.R.S. Wallcliffe Chardonnay 2023

A top vintage, a top Chardonnay winemaker and the result is something rather special. There’s a lot going on here with Cliff Royle overseeing a wine that exudes all class and complexity. Alluring aromas in sunny Meyer lemon, citrus blossom, white peach, nectarine, lemon curd with some super smart vanillin oak in play. This wine is all vitality and purity of fruit expression married to French oak, the latter a driving force that works super well with the fruit. The palate brings an unforced richness of flavour and texture nicely countered with some energising acidity. Flametree’s S.R.S. or Sub-Regional Series is based on proposed sub-regions by the late Dr John Gladstones with Wallcliffe centering on and around the town of Margaret River. Wallcliffe definitely covers all the Chardonnay bases with the ’23 wine including a touch of preserved lemon savouriness with a tart lime zest brightness that attracts the full attention of the tastebuds.