96 Points - Ray Jordan | 96 Points - Jane Faulkner
Domaine Naturaliste is the personal venture of Bruce Dukes; a highly acclaimed winemaker with nearly three decades experience working with producers in Margaret River. One of several impressive Chardonnays currently made at Domaine Naturaliste, 'Artus' showcases the local Gin Gin Chardonnay clone to deliver a richer style (compared to their 'Purus' Chardonnay).
A wine with a wonderful recent record, the 2023 Domaine Naturaliste Artus Chardonnay is complex, textural with an unashamedly 'old-world' feel. Bursting with flavours of grapefruit, fresh nectarine, poached pear and a bright line of acidity, the quality French oak adds further complexity. Another sublime Margaret River Chardonnay from Domaine Naturaliste, this highly acclaimed release has plenty of appeal for the serious Chardonnay lover.
"96 Points. Plenty happening in this funky and wild expression of Chardonnay. On the nose, an intense combination of butterscotch, roasted cashew, and lemon curd with a vanilla bean lift reveal. The palate is layered with a complex maze and intricate weave of flavours reflecting the initial aromas. And then a minerally finish completes a very good wine. Cellar: 12 years. $65."- Ray Jordan, rayjordanwine.com.au.
"96 Points. Gingin clone grown in Karridale, wild fermentation, malolactic fermentation and matured in 40% new oak and battonage applied every two weeks. To many Chardonnay lovers, the aroma of this wine will have you swooning. Sliced pineapple, peach cheeks and the classiest of new oak wafts from the glass. Mace, vanilla bean and buttered sourdough toast. Acidity increases over long moments and provides a zingy note to the luscious creamy mouthfeel of cashew, butter and lemon curd. Flavours last for days and it’s near impossible not to be searching for your glass for the next sip. Beguiling and a real work of beauty. Drink with bubbling macaroni and cheese. You can thank me later. $65."- Shanteh Wale, winepilot.com.
"96 Points. While it always comes out as a bit of a powerhouse flavour-wise and in structure, this is backed up by fine acidity, driving this long. It also keeps the substantial flavours of savoury oak, creamed-honey lees and grapefruit in check. Some flinty, funky sulphides add an extra dimension of complexity as it continues to build on the palate. 13% alc. Drink: 2025 - 2033. Screwcap. $65"- Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion.
