TysonStelzer.com

Vasse Felix Heytesbury Chardonnay

Vasse Felix has poured tremendous energy into its vineyards since 2006 and this is the first vintage that fruit from its newly acquired Karridale site hit Heytesbury heights and was incorporated into the blend for the first time. The focus and purity on show here are nothing short of breathtaking, capturing exquisite fruit and presenting it unashamedly with all the complexity of skilful winemaking craftsmanship. The hue is a brilliant, lively straw green. The bouquet is mesmerising, presenting exceptional struck flint and gunpowder reductive complexity. The palate rides a line of beautifully focused and honed lime and lemon fruit, nuanced with fennel and pepper, yet upholding a presence and a concentration of enticing balance. Cashew nut French oak is impeccably gauged and supportive, carrying the finish very long and linear. A wine of delightful refinement and grace yet still inimitably Margaret River chardonnay. $46 at Bayfields.