2022 Xanadu Reserve Chardonnay

From an outstanding vintage in Margaret River, with fruit sourced entirely from the Lagan Estate, Xanadu's oldest Chardonnay vineyard, the low-yielding vines produce distinctive 'hen and chicken' bunches typical of the Gingin clone. Natural fermentation is encouraged to highlight the vineyard's unique character. The fruit was hand-picked and whole-bunch pressed, followed by 100% barrel fermentation in select French oak (24% new). Wild yeasts were used to add complexity, and the wine was lees stirred during a nine-month maturation period without malolactic fermentation. Only the best barrels were chosen for the final blend, bottled in November 2022.
Alc. 13%

Other Reviews....
The 2022 Chardonnay Reserve is built to impress thanks to its rich, yet fine aromas of nectarine and white peach with strong flinty tones and lightly toasted oak in tow. Despite chalky acidity, there is a decadence here, and you can not help but be impressed by its sheer power. Long and strong with tangy acidity and impressive length, its best years are well down the track. Drink 2032 - 2040.
94 Points
Angus Hughson - Antonio Galloni's Vinous

The 2022 Reserve Chardonnay is richer and more voluminous than the racy Steven's Road, and the wine exhibits a capacious mid-palate that tends to expand and widen as it progresses through to the long finish. This is a wine of profound complexity and length, yet it is steely, restrained and mineral in the extreme. Salivating acidity clinches the deal. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2027 - 2037.
97 Points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate