Woodlands Brook Vineyard Chardonnay 2023

Founders David Watson and wife Heather had spectacular success with the cabernets he made in ’79 and the early ’80s. Commuting from Perth while raising a family became too much and for some years the grapes from Woodlands were sold to other Margaret River producers. With the advent of sons Stuart and Andrew in ’02–05 (Stuart primarily responsible for winemaking), the estate bounced back to pre-eminence, expanding with the purchase of the 17ha Woodlands Brook Vineyard in ’07. The top-end wines primarily come from the original Woodlands Vineyard, where the now-certified organic vines are 50+yr.

(Mendoza) clone of Chardonnay – 7 hectares,  close – planted plot of selection massale Chardonnay on the south facing slope of Woodlands Brook. Chardonnay at Woodlands Brook resides on a gentle south facing slope, similar to the ‘Chloe’ block at Woodlands – sandy loam over clay soils provides the perfect environment for the vines to flourish. The fruit has started to produce wines of delicacy and distinction.

Vintage 2023 Wrap: An excellent vintage in Margaret River
2023 proved an extended yet very rewarding vintage in the Margaret River Wine Region. Optimal, dry weather conditions paired with the absence of any significant climatic challenges or disease pressure set the scene for a moderate season, ideal for gentle, consistent ripening across all varieties.     
-A slightly cool, delayed start – Consistently warm, dry summer – 2023: An Excellent Vintage –

WOODLANDS CHARDONNAY MARGARET RIVER WOODLANDS BROOK VINEYARD 2021
Score: 95
Lots of flinty, crushed stone and sliced cooked apples with white pepper undertones. Medium-bodied, racy and vivid with a steely and long finish. Salty, too. Refined and polished. Deft winemaking. Drink or hold. Screw cap. JamesSuckling.Com