Xanadu Margaret River Circa 77 Chardonnay 2020

Xanadu is a winery at the top of its game. Alongside Halliday Winemaker of the Year accolade, Xanadu was also shortlisted for Best Value Winery of the Year and again, awarded a 5 Red Star Winery rating.  This is their entry level Chardonnay, but please don't be turned away by the price. Rather, read the reviews below and you'll understand why we're making a such a fuss.

"The name is derived from the first plantings by Xanadu in 1977. $20 (and presumably discounted below that) is a ridiculous price for this so-cleverly made wine, its core dinky-di white stone fruits and a dash of grapefruit, together with a feather-light infusion of oak."  James Halliday.  The Weekend Australian.  Nov. 2021.

"70% barrel fermented (wild), the balance in tank. Matured for 9 months, bâtonnage throughout, mlf blocked. Very fine, pure and mineral; this gives petit Chablis a solid run for its money. Crushed oyster shell, green pineapple, nashi pear, lemon zest and the requisite salty acidity. Really quite exciting when viewed through Chablis-coloured glasses."  Erin Larkin.  Halliday Wine Companion.

"Pretty complete package for a wine at this price. It was a super year in Margs to start with. This is designed as an early drinking Chardonnay and delivers on all fronts. Plenty of stone fruit with a little honeydew melon edge with the faintest influence of older oak. It has a creamy, soft texture with a squeeze of lemon and grapefruit to give it purpose through to the finish."  Ray Jordan.