Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay 2005

The color is a brilliant green straw. The fresh nose is classic Leeuwin Estate Chardonnay, with intensely lifted aromas of ripe yellow pear skins, the petals of citrus blossom, nectarine and ripe peach accompanied by hints of fig and cashews from barrel maturation on yeast lees with integrated charry French oak. These flavours combine into a finely balanced bouquet; the result of very low yielding vines matched with subtle winemaking to preserve the richness of the fruit.

The palate displays the mouth filling and intense flavors of fresh ripe pears which is full bodied and incredibly rich, intermingling with delicious stone fruit flavors and nectarine. The middle palate shows richness from both the fruit and the lees stirring, with a lingering fresh citrus finish. The new French oak complements the fruit, providing a wonderful balance of warm toasty flavors on the finish.

The structure of this wine highlights both the power of a typical multi-layered Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay with an underlying elegance.

95 Points

"Round, generous and amazingly fresh, with a juicy hint of grapefruit playing against spicy pear, green guava and mint..."
Wine Spectator