2018 Leeuwin Estate 'Art Series' Chardonnay Magnum 1.5L

98 Points - Erin Larkin, Halliday Wine Companion

“Cool destemmed fruit with some skin contact. The juice was settled for 3 days, racked and inoculated with yeast. 100% of the juice was fermented in new French oak barriques with the lees stirred regularly. After 11 months in barrels the various components were blended, fined (bentonite, PVPP, milk) and cold stabilized. Bottled 19-21 August 2019. Benchmark pedigree Margaret River chardonnay from the perfect 2018 vintage. Kaffir leaf, ocean spray, nectarine, yellow peach, custard apple and white peach are the start. Saffron curls, vanilla pod and freshly grated nutmeg frame saline acidity, crouched and coiled. Length of flavour extends across the palate in an endless procession of texture and complexity. All of the power, grace and excellence of previous years is here, amplified.”

98 Points - Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate

“I'm not sure that this wine, nor this vintage, needs a detailed preamble, such was the extensive coverage it received on almost every platform, both while the vintage was playing out and upon release of the magnificent wines that it yielded. 2018 was one of those years in Margaret River that was responsible for most producers' best wines, in both red and white. The marri blossom was abundant (which occupied the attention of the birds, thus reducing a key viticultural pest), and the weather conditions were benign, erring on the side of warm. In short, it was a cracking year.”

97 Points - Wine Spectator

“This impressive white is complex, supple and elegant, though not shy on intensity. Opens with creamy, satiny notes of apricot, pear, lemon curd and passion fruit puree, with touches of toasted hazelnut, salted caramel, jasmine and green tea. The way the details mingle with and complete one another makes this as complex as it is refreshing, with a fresh thread of acidity weaving in and out. Drink now through 2036. 800 cases imported.”

96 Points - Josh Raynolds, Vinous

“Translucent yellow. Powerful, mineral-accented nectarine, orange, pear nectar, iodine and pungent flowers on the intensely perfumed nose. Smooth, chewy and dry in the mouth, offering wonderfully concentrated yet vibrant orchard and pit fruit flavors complemented by suggestions of fennel, sweet butter, saffron and candied lemon peel. Shows superb definition and finishes minerally, smoky and extremely long, with lingering citrus and pit fruit notes and a touch of smokiness.”