Domaine Naturaliste Artus Chardonnay 2020

Winemaking and Drinking

Domaine Naturaliste, located in the heart of Margaret River, Western Australia, has garnered a reputation for producing some of the region’s finest wines. The Domaine Naturaliste Artus Chardonnay 2020 is no exception, representing the pinnacle of the vineyard's commitment to quality and terroir expression. The vineyard, founded by Bruce Dukes, an agronomist and seasoned winemaker, embodies a meticulous approach to viticulture and winemaking. The Artus Chardonnay 2020, named after an ancient French word meaning "bear," symbolizes strength, balance, and elegance — qualities evident in the wine itself.

Vineyard and Terroir

The vineyard benefits from the unique terroir of Margaret River, renowned for its Mediterranean climate, rich soils, and coastal influences. The region’s gravelly loam soils, combined with a long, cool growing season, create ideal conditions for Chardonnay. Domaine Naturaliste’s sustainable practices and minimal intervention philosophy ensure that the vineyard's health and the wine’s integrity are maintained. This approach allows the Chardonnay grapes to fully express their varietal character and the nuances of the terroir.

Winemaking Process

The 2020 vintage of Artus Chardonnay began with careful handpicking of the grapes during the early morning hours to preserve their freshness. Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes were whole-bunch pressed to extract pure juice with minimal phenolic extraction. Fermentation took place in French oak barriques, 30% of which were new, imparting subtle oak characteristics and complexity to the wine. The use of wild yeasts, naturally occurring in the vineyard, added layers of texture and depth. Following fermentation, the wine underwent regular bâtonnage, or lees stirring, which enhanced its creamy mouthfeel and richness. The wine was then aged for 10 months in oak, allowing it to develop further complexity and integration.

Tasting Notes

The Domaine Naturaliste Artus Chardonnay 2020 is a testament to the craftsmanship and terroir of Margaret River. In the glass, it reveals a pale straw color with a golden hue. On the nose, it exudes an enticing bouquet of white peach, nectarine, and lemon zest, interwoven with notes of toasted almond, brioche, and a hint of flint. These aromatics are beautifully balanced, inviting the first sip.

On the palate, the wine showcases a seamless balance between fruit intensity and vibrant acidity. Flavors of ripe stone fruits and citrus are complemented by nuances of vanilla, butterscotch, and a touch of minerality. The mid-palate is rich and textured, with a creamy mouthfeel derived from the lees stirring and oak aging. The finish is long and elegant, leaving a lingering impression of citrus zest and subtle oak spice.

Awards and Accolades

Since its release, the Domaine Naturaliste Artus Chardonnay 2020 has received critical acclaim and numerous accolades, solidifying its status as a standout wine in the Margaret River region. It has garnered high scores from esteemed wine critics and publications:

• James Halliday Wine Companion: Awarded 96 points, praising its "sophisticated and layered complexity" and "impressive length and finesse."
• Decanter: Rated 95 points, highlighting its "precision, balance, and elegant structure."
• Wine Enthusiast: Included in their Top 100 Wines of the Year, noting its "captivating aromatics and superb texture."

These accolades reflect the dedication and expertise of Bruce Dukes and his team at Domaine Naturaliste, further enhancing the wine’s reputation on the global stage.

The Domaine Naturaliste Artus Chardonnay 2020 is a remarkable wine that captures the essence of Margaret River’s terroir and the meticulous craftsmanship of its winemakers. From its origins in the vineyard to the final sip, it offers a journey of elegance, complexity, and pure enjoyment. Whether savored now or cellared for future delight, the Artus Chardonnay 2020 stands as a testament to the exceptional quality of Australian Chardonnay and the enduring legacy of Domaine Naturaliste.