Leeuwin Estate Art Series Sauvignon Blanc 2023

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1973 in Margaret River, Western Australia, Leeuwin Estate is one of the region’s pioneering wineries. Under the guidance of Denis and Tricia Horgan, and with mentorship from Robert Mondavi, the estate quickly gained acclaim for its premium wines. The Art Series represents their flagship range, combining exceptional winemaking with original Australian artwork, reflecting the estate’s commitment to both art and science.

Producer and Winemaker

Leeuwin Estate remains family-owned, with the Horgan family actively involved in its operations. Senior Winemaker Tim Lovett leads the winemaking team, upholding the estate’s philosophy of producing wines that express the unique terroir of Margaret River. Their approach combines traditional techniques with modern innovations to craft wines of exceptional quality and character.

Vineyards and Microclimate

Situated in the southern part of Margaret River, Leeuwin Estate benefits from a maritime climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The vineyards are planted on gravelly loam soils over a subsoil of clay, providing excellent drainage and contributing to vine health. Proximity to the Indian Ocean moderates temperatures, ensuring a long growing season that allows for the gradual ripening of grapes, resulting in wines with complexity and balance.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2023 Art Series Sauvignon Blanc underwent 30% barrel fermentation in one-year-old French oak barriques, followed by four months of maturation with regular lees stirring. The remaining portion was fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the varietal’s vibrant fruit character. This combination results in a wine that balances freshness with textural depth.

Tasting Notes

The 2023 vintage presents a vibrant and aromatic profile. The nose is an inviting myriad of primary fruits highlighting cut lime, pink grapefruit, lemon blossom, and cape gooseberries. It is bright and lifted with a delicate subtle complexity of cardamom and coriander seeds. On the palate, it showcases citrus, lemon sherbet, grapefruit, and burnt limes. Diligent textures combine with subtle yet complex chamomile and cardamom spice, as a fine, woven, and pristine acid profile defines the long, concentrated, structured palate.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with fresh seafood dishes such as oysters, scallops, and grilled fish. Its vibrant acidity and citrus notes also complement Asian cuisine, including Thai salads and sushi. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with goat cheese salads or dishes featuring fresh herbs and citrus.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity, serve this wine at a temperature of 8–10°C (46–50°F). No decanting is necessary. Use white wine glasses with a narrow bowl to concentrate the aromas and maintain the wine’s crispness.

Storage and Aging Potential

While delightful in its youth, this wine also possesses the structure to age gracefully for 3–5 years. With time, it will develop additional complexity, showcasing notes of honey, toast, and petrol, characteristic of aged Sauvignon Blanc. Store in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature to ensure optimal aging.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Sauvignon Blanc

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.0%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: Not available

• Wine Spectator: Not available

• Wine Advocate (Erin Larkin): 94 points

• Robert Parker: 94 points

• James Suckling (Ned Goodwin MW): 92 points