Xanadu 'Stevens Road' Chardonnay, Margaret River, Australia

The 2022 Xanadu Stevens Road Chardonnay captures the essence of its single-vineyard origins, Block 2 of the Stevens Road Vineyard, located along the Boodjidup Brook in Margaret River. This mature, low-yielding site consistently produces fruit of exceptional quality, showcasing the Gingin clone’s hallmark intensity and finesse. The 2022 vintage was marked by warm conditions and low yields, creating wines of extraordinary concentration and elegance.

Product Details:

• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Region: 100% Margaret River, Western Australia
• Vintage: 2022
• Alcohol: 13.0%
• pH: 3.02
• Total Acidity: 8.4 g/L
• Residual Sugar: 1.2 g/L
• Oak Treatment: Nine months in French oak (20% new)
• Certifications: Sustainable Winegrowing Australia Certified, Vegan

Sensory Description:
This Chardonnay offers a pale straw color with a bouquet of delicate white stone fruits, citrus, and floral notes, layered with hints of sea spray and wet stone. The medium-bodied palate features white peach and lemon-lime flavors, enhanced by a saline tang and a crystalline mineral structure. The bracing acidity adds vibrancy, guiding the wine to a crisp, lingering finish. This wine displays a modern refinement and classic Margaret River characteristics, promising to develop greater complexity with cellaring.

Producer's Background:
Xanadu, established in 1977, has become a benchmark producer in the Margaret River region. The Stevens Road Vineyard is celebrated for its ability to produce exceptional single-vineyard wines, with its Block 2 Chardonnay consistently chosen for this limited release. Xanadu’s commitment to sustainable viticulture and minimalist winemaking allows the unique character of this vineyard to shine through, year after year.

Serving Suggestions:
The 2022 Stevens Road Chardonnay is best served slightly chilled at 50–54°F and pairs beautifully with dishes that complement its bright acidity and mineral character. Ideal pairings include grilled seafood, roasted poultry with lemon and herbs, or creamy risottos. While approachable now, this Chardonnay will reward patient cellaring, maturing into a more layered and toasty profile over the next decade.

Noteworthy Awards:
The 2022 Stevens Road Chardonnay has received significant acclaim, highlighted by being named Chardonnay of the Year in Tyson Stelzer’s Top 250 Australian Wines of 2024. It also received 98 points from Ray Jordan, who praised its crystalline palate and bright intensity, and 97 points from Tyson Stelzer, emphasizing its superb balance of power, finesse, and scintillating acidity​​.