2023 Pemberton Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
Cherubino has long championed Pemberton, especially for aromatic varieties. The region still has strong coastal influence but the land is much cheaper than in Margaret River, apparently. 26-year-old Dijon clones. Hand-harvested in March and whole-bunch pressed directly to oak. Ambient yeasts were used. New (15%) and one-year-old oak – puncheon and barriques. Aged on lees with minimal preservatives added for 8 months prior to bottling. Less than 10% malolactic conversion. TA 7.1 g/l, pH 3.1. Nice savoury pear-fruit aroma. A little bit nutty. Crisp and chewy. Bright citrus fruit and creamy on the palate. Lovely orange-pith finish. Long and precise. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Pemberton Chardonnay is tightly wound—coiled like a spring. The wine is mineral and yet fleshy, with a core of lemongrass and brine. Orchard fruits carry the weight of the wine across the palate, and while this is profoundly promising, the wine currently is closed. It feels to me to be intensely exciting and declares a long future. Highly recommended. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.