Filius Chardonnay 2021

Located in the renowned Margaret River region of southwest Western Australia, the Vasse Felix vineyard benefits from the moderating influence of the nearby Indian Ocean. The Chardonnay vines are primarily planted on well-drained, gravelly soils, spread across several parcels within the estate. This maritime terroir, characterized by cool breezes and consistent sunshine, allows for a slow and balanced ripening of the grapes, fostering the expression of natural freshness, aromatic finesse, and pure fruit in this cuvée.

The Chardonnay grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness and then gently pressed before fermentation in French oak barrels, primarily using indigenous yeasts to preserve the vineyard's character. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels for several months, with a limited percentage of new oak, and occasional lees stirring to add texture and complexity, while maintaining the freshness and purity of fruit characteristic of Vasse Felix's Filius style.

This wine reveals notes of white peach , green apple , and lemony citrus , combined with floral touches of white blossoms and subtly woody nuances of vanilla , toasted hazelnut , and toast . Delicate mineral accents and a hint of sweet spice complete the aromatic profile. On the palate, the texture is both creamy and taut, supported by lively acidity, harmonious volume, and a precise, clean, and flavorful finish.

Australia began producing wine more than two centuries ago. This has resulted in a country rich in old vines, multigenerational winemaking families, and a deep-rooted knowledge and respect for craftsmanship. Add to this a thirst for exploration and innovation, a fearless attitude, and a diverse portfolio of 65 wine regions across a wide range of climates, and you have the makings of an extraordinary wine nation. Australia burst onto the export scene in the 1980s and has since been offering the world vibrant, fruity, and exceptionally good-value wines. Until the late 1990s and early 2000s, the history of Australian wine was dominated by examples of Shiraz, Grenache, and overly concentrated red blends. Between these two extremes lies the diverse range of high-quality Australian wines and regional wines that has always existed. Australian viticulture is concentrated primarily along the southern coastline where conditions are cooler. There are four main wine regions, each centered around major cities: Western Australia around Perth, South Australia around Adelaide, Victoria around Melbourne, and New South Wales around Sydney. The country is one of the world's largest wine producers and was the fourth-largest exporter in 2011. This recent development has made Australia one of the most prominent countries for the quality of its wines. You can taste Australian wines throughout the country. Each Australian region has its own grape varieties. Australian wines are defined by their grape variety, unlike French wines, which are defined by their terroir.