Xanadu Stevens Road Chardonnay 2020

Technical side first. The Chardonnay from this small vineyard was handpicked and then whole bunch pressed to French oak barriques, of which 27% were new, for wild fermentation. The barrels were stirred regularly over nine months but consistent with Glenn Goodall’s approach the wines did not go through malolactic fermentation. This was one of the coolest and smallest Margaret River vintages. But it was also one of the best in terms of quality. There is tremendous power and palate intensity here with a chalky salted caramel-like palate lifted with a bright minerally acidity. Has a chalky mouth feel with a dry savoury finish. Outstanding wine.