Leeuwin Estate Prelude Chardonnay 2023

Winery Background and History

Established in 1973 in Margaret River, Western Australia, Leeuwin Estate is one of the region’s pioneering wineries. Under the guidance of founders Denis and Tricia Horgan, and with mentorship from Napa Valley’s Robert Mondavi, the estate transformed from a cattle station into a world-renowned winery. The Prelude Vineyards range, including the Chardonnay, offers an accessible introduction to the estate’s premium winemaking, focusing on fruit purity and early approachability.

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 Micro Climate

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 Prelude Chardonnay underwent fermentation using a combination of cultured and wild yeasts. Fermentation occurred in French oak barrels, 40% of which were new, followed by ten months of maturation. This process imparts subtle oak nuances while preserving the wine’s vibrant fruit character. The meticulous approach to vinification and aging ensures a wine that is both expressive of its varietal characteristics and reflective of the Margaret River terroir.

Tasting notes

The 2023 Prelude Chardonnay presents a bright and aromatic profile. On the nose, it offers notes of nashi pear, lime, and nectarine, underpinned by delicate florals and a subtle touch of brioche. The palate is vibrant and ethereal, showcasing energetic citrus fruits complemented by saline acidity. Gentle nuances of hazelnut and sweet spice add complexity, leading to a focused and enduring finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its vibrant acidity and complex flavors complement seafood such as grilled lobster, scallops, or pan-seared halibut. Creamy poultry dishes like chicken Alfredo or turkey with a white wine sauce also harmonize well. For vegetarian options, consider pairing with mushroom risotto or butternut squash ravioli. Aged cheeses like Gruyère or Comté enhance the wine’s depth, while dishes featuring truffle or roasted root vegetables accentuate its earthy undertones.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the nuances of the 2023 Prelude Chardonnay, serve it at a temperature between 10–12°C (50–54°F). Decanting for 30 minutes can help open up the wine’s aromatic profile, especially in its youth. Use a white wine glass with a slightly wider bowl to allow the aromas to develop and concentrate. Avoid over-chilling, as excessively low temperatures can mute the wine’s expressive flavors and aromas. Proper serving enhances the wine’s complexity, allowing its layers of fruit, minerality, and oak integration to shine through with elegance and balance.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2023 Prelude Chardonnay possesses excellent aging potential, with the capacity to evolve gracefully over the next 5–7 years. Stored under optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent temperature and humidity—the wine will develop additional complexity, showcasing tertiary notes of honey, toasted nuts, and subtle spice. Its robust structure and balanced acidity provide the foundation for longevity, allowing the wine to mature and reveal deeper layers of flavor. Collectors and enthusiasts can anticipate a rewarding evolution, with the wine reaching its peak expression with careful cellaring.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%

Scores

• Wine Spectator: 90 points

• Wine Advocate: 94 points

• Robert Parker: 94 points

• James Suckling: 93 points