"Sarah Ahmed, Decanter Premium 93/100
Late January rain refreshed this unirrigated vineyard, and perfectly ripe Chardonnay was harvested in early March. Burgundy clones and an element of natural ferment with turbid juice give a savoury accent and pillowy, creamy, oatmeal tones, while perfumed pear and white peach flesh out a persistent backbone of zesty lime acidity. Burgundian barrels (40% new) add classy toasted hazelnut and vanilla nuances. Well made, complete and raring to go. Reviewed March 2021
Tamlyn Currin, jancisrobinson.com 17/20
Smells of nectarine. Golden peaches poached in cardamom syrup, touch of ripe mandarin. Hazelnut skin rubbed into the fragrant oils and pith of yuzu and this pressed into orange and papaya fruit. Gentle, fine layers of flavour but the acidity has sharp-cut flare. This is so young, but already the oak has fused into the fruit, corset become bone, lace net become nerve network. Finishes with a texture-touch of talc. Already lovely but there is a long way to go"
In 1972, legendary Napa Valley winemaker, Robert Mondavi, identified the future site of the Leeuwin vineyard as being ideal for the production of premium wine and provided early mentorship to Denis and Tricia Horgan in the transformation of their cattle farm into Leeuwin Estate. Enjoying its first commercial vintage in 1979, Leeuwin was thrust into the international spotlight when Decanter Magazine gave its highest recommendation to the 1981 'Art Series' Chardonnay.
