Domaine Naturaliste Floris Chardonnay 2020

Winemaking and Drinking

The Domaine Naturaliste vineyard is situated in the sub-region of Wilyabrup, an area famed for its ideal growing conditions for Chardonnay. The vineyard benefits from a maritime climate, with cooling sea breezes that temper the heat, ensuring a long and even ripening period for the grapes. The combination of gravelly loam soils and the careful vineyard management practices adopted by Dukes and his team results in fruit of outstanding quality and character.

The 2020 vintage saw a near-perfect growing season, with a mild spring and a warm summer providing ideal conditions for the Chardonnay grapes. These optimal weather patterns, coupled with careful hand-picking and gentle pressing, allowed for the preservation of the pristine fruit flavors and natural acidity that define this wine.

Tasting Notes

The Domaine Naturaliste Floris Chardonnay 2020 is a vibrant and elegant wine that captures the essence of the Margaret River terroir. In the glass, it presents a pale straw color with a hint of green, indicative of its youth and freshness.

On the nose, the wine exudes a complex bouquet of aromas. Initial notes of citrus blossom and white peach are complemented by subtle hints of flint and toasted almond, a result of the partial malolactic fermentation and maturation in French oak barrels. As the wine opens up, more intricate layers of nectarine, grapefruit, and a touch of vanilla emerge, adding depth and intrigue.

The palate is where the Floris Chardonnay truly shines. It is medium-bodied with a crisp, vibrant acidity that balances the fruit intensity beautifully. Flavors of lemon zest, green apple, and stone fruits dominate, intertwined with nuances of brioche and creamy cashew from the lees stirring. The wine’s texture is silky and refined, leading to a long, mineral-driven finish that leaves a lasting impression of purity and finesse.

Awards and Accolades

Since its release, the Domaine Naturaliste Floris Chardonnay 2020 has garnered significant praise and numerous accolades from wine critics and competitions alike. It was awarded a gold medal at the 2021 Margaret River Wine Show, a testament to its exceptional quality. Renowned wine critic James Halliday also bestowed the wine with a stellar 95-point rating, highlighting its elegance, complexity, and outstanding balance.

The Vineyard

Domaine Naturaliste's vineyard is more than just a site of grape production; it is a living, breathing ecosystem that reflects the philosophy of sustainable and minimal intervention winemaking. Bruce Dukes and his team employ a holistic approach to viticulture, prioritizing soil health, biodiversity, and the use of organic and biodynamic practices. This commitment not only ensures the production of high-quality fruit but also preserves the natural environment for future generations.

The vineyard's proximity to the Indian Ocean plays a crucial role in defining the character of the wines. The maritime influence moderates the climate, reducing temperature extremes and contributing to the vibrant acidity and aromatic complexity of the Chardonnay. The gravelly loam soils provide excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture to sustain the vines through the growing season, resulting in grapes with concentrated flavors and balanced ripeness.

In conclusion, the Domaine Naturaliste Floris Chardonnay 2020 is a shining example of the potential of the Margaret River region to produce world-class wines. Its meticulous crafting from vine to bottle, coupled with the accolades it has received, solidifies its status as a standout Chardonnay that offers both immediate enjoyment and the promise of graceful aging. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a gourmet meal, this wine is sure to delight and impress even the most discerning palates.