89% Margaret River, 10% Great Southern, 1% Blackwood Valley

Chardonnay is the pinnacle of white wines in Margaret River and we love the class, finesse and its suitability to wild fermentation. Blackwood Valley is a diverse region inland of Margaret River and this vineyard is renowned for its powerful chardonnay. We like the Great Southern for its lean tight chardonnay, which adds fruit lift and length to the blend.

We utilize the Gin Gin clone unique to WA and the 4 Dijon clones (seductively named 76,95,96 and 277) imported in the 80’s.

Hand and machine picked, whole bunch pressed where handpicked; whole solids juices and wild ferments; 80% barrel ferment in new (14%) and used puncheons; aged on lees for 8 months in tank and barrel.

The 2022 season started early but a cool spring meant flowering and set was delayed. Chardonnay however set very good crops and the cool nights maintained fresh vibrant acidity. The hot spell in January brought picking forward again but the Chardonnays came in with great fruit, freshness and balance.

The 2022 Tough Love Chardonnay has ample white nectarine, nougat, guava with a little grapefruit. Powerful yet balanced on the palate with crisp acidity, subtle oak and brioche complexity. A bright juicy fruit forward style with plenty of layers for the chardonnay trainspotters. Delicious solo or with Chicken poached in a XO masterstock.