Forrest Vineyard, Wilyabrup

Margaret River

The 2023 Single Vineyard Chardonnay is from the Forrest vineyard in central Wilyabrup, to the north of Margaret River town. The 2023 season that birthed it was magnificent—the best this century for whites; the premium reds are yet to be released. Mild temperatures, a long, dry growing season meant there was little to no pressure in the vineyard. The fruit was in brilliant condition, and the wines show this. The 2023 Single Vineyard Chardonnay leads with elegantly managed reduction, showing curry leaf and brine, white flowers, flint and salted nuts, beeswax, sea spray and fresh pressed linen. This is a pleasure to smell and even better to taste. Ductile, resolved phenolics provide shape on the palate, while the toasty oak sits neatly folded into the fruit. What a wine. Yes. The best release under this label yet. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. 97 points. Erin Larkin, Robert Parker Wine Advocate Nov 2024