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The Clairault Margaret River Chardonnay 2022 is a benchmark white wine from Clairault Streicker Wines, sourced from two estate sites — the Ironstone Vineyard in Wilyabrup and the Bridgeland Vineyard in Karridale. The 2022 vintage was widely praised for its extraordinary purity, poise, and seamless integration of fruit, oak, and acidity, earning a 95-point score from critic Jeni Port. It represents excellent expression of Margaret River's Chardonnay potential, balancing ripe stone fruit with vibrant natural acidity and refined French oak.

Clairault Streicker Wines

Clairault Streicker is a family-owned grower and wine producer based in Margaret River, Western Australia, with roots dating back to 1976 when the original Clairault vineyard was established in Wilyabrup. The estate has grown from a modest four hectares to nearly 200 hectares across four distinct vineyard sites in Yallingup, Wilyabrup, and Karridale, becoming a benchmark producer in the region.

Blend

100% Chardonnay — 71% Ironstone Vineyard (Wilyabrup, Gingin clone), 29% Bridgeland Vineyard (Karridale, Clone 5)

Tasting Profile

Aromas of freshly cut yellow peaches, lemon grass, honeysuckle, and hints of cinnamon lead to a rich palate of apricots, nectarines, and white flowers, supported by bristling natural acidity and a long, sea-spray-tinged finish. The wine is barrel-fermented in approximately 40% new French oak barriques and aged for 9 months, delivering great texture, length, and sophistication.

Region

Margaret River, located in the southwestern corner of Western Australia, enjoys a Mediterranean climate moderated by the Indian and Southern Oceans on three sides, with gravelly soils ideal for premium viticulture. The region is renowned for producing world-class Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon with a signature balance of power and elegance.

Price Context

Approximately AUD $34–$55 depending on tier (Margaret River Chardonnay vs. Estate Chardonnay); around £18.50 in the UK market.

Food Pairings

🦞 Lobster or crab🐟 Pan-seared fish with butter sauce🍝 Pasta with creamy sauces🧀 Semi-soft cheeses🍗 Roast poultry

Critic Scores

95/100 Jeni Port (Wine Pilot)92/100 Shanteh Wale (Wine Pilot)