# Prelude Vineyards Chardonnay (2024)

- **Producer:** Leeuwin Estate
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** 100% Chardonnay
- **Region:** Western Australia, Australia
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €27
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, apricot, lemon, grapefruit, butter, cream, vanilla, cloves, almond, hazelnut, honey

## About this wine

Prelude Vineyards Chardonnay by Leeuwin Estate is a 100% Chardonnay from Margaret River, Western Australia. Established with the vision of Robert Mondavi, Leeuwin Estate is a family-owned winery renowned for its commitment to quality. The Prelude range represents the estate's 'first release' Chardonnay, designed to be more accessible in its youth compared to their iconic Art Series. The 2024 vintage benefited from a warm, dry summer moderated by coastal breezes, contributing to the wine's balanced profile. Leeuwin Estate is one of the founding wineries of the Margaret River district, leveraging its unique maritime climate for premium viticulture.

## Interesting facts

- Leeuwin Estate was founded with guidance from Robert Mondavi.
- Prelude is Leeuwin's 'first release' Chardonnay, meant for earlier enjoyment.
- The Chardonnay clone used is the 'Gin Gin', known for acidity and grip.
- Margaret River is one of Australia's premier wine regions.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and richness are complemented by creamy textures and richer proteins. Its vibrant acidity cuts through fatty elements, cleansing the palate, while subtle oak notes can harmonize with grilled or roasted preparations.

## Wine making process

The Prelude Vineyards Chardonnay is produced using 100% Chardonnay grapes from Margaret River. The winemaking process begins with the gentle pressing of whole bunches. Fermentation occurs in French oak barriques, with 35% of the barrels being new. A portion of the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation to enhance its textural complexity. Following fermentation, the wine is matured for ten months in these French oak barrels, aged on its lees with regular stirring to build mouthfeel and integrate the oak. Grapes are harvested in the early morning to maintain freshness.