Xanadu 'Reserve' Chardonnay, Margaret River, Australia

The 2022 Xanadu Reserve Chardonnay is a masterful expression of Margaret River’s terroir, crafted exclusively from the low-yielding Gingin clone vines of the Lagan Estate, Xanadu’s oldest Chardonnay vineyard. The 2022 vintage, characterized by warm conditions and exceptional fruit quality, allowed the winery to produce a Chardonnay of remarkable intensity and elegance.

Product Details:

• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Region: 100% Margaret River, Western Australia
• Vintage: 2022
• Alcohol: 13.0%
• pH: 3.06
• Total Acidity: 8.9 g/L
• Residual Sugar: 0.8 g/L
• Oak Treatment: Nine months in French oak (24% new)
• Certifications: Sustainable Winegrowing Australia Certified, Vegan

Sensory Description:
This Reserve Chardonnay displays a pale straw hue and an enticing bouquet of fresh pear, lime, roasted cashews, and frangipani. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with an exquisite purity of fruit, featuring flavors of pear purée and zesty grapefruit. These vibrant fruit notes are accentuated by a crystalline, quartz-like mineral structure. The wine’s lively natural acidity ensures a crisp, lingering finish, while its refined complexity will develop further with careful aging.

Producer's Background:
Founded in 1977, Xanadu has become one of Margaret River’s most acclaimed wineries, renowned for its commitment to producing wines that reflect the region’s unique characteristics. The Lagan Estate vineyard, home to the Gingin clone Chardonnay, provides the foundation for this Reserve wine, embodying the winery’s meticulous approach to viticulture and winemaking. Each vintage is crafted to highlight the exceptional quality of the estate’s fruit, with winemaking practices focused on minimal intervention and natural fermentation.

Serving Suggestions:
The 2022 Reserve Chardonnay is best served slightly chilled at 50–54°F. It pairs beautifully with creamy pasta, buttery seafood dishes such as lobster or scallops, or roasted chicken with herb-infused sauces. While approachable now, the wine’s structure and vibrant acidity make it a perfect candidate for extended cellaring, rewarding patience over the next decade.