Wednesday, October 28, 2009

LEEUWIN ESTATE PRELUDE VINEYARDS CHARDONNAY 2007

 - Margaret River, WA
 - $27-$35
 - Screwcap
 - 14.0%alc

In addition to making Australia's most iconic chardonnay, the Art Series, Leeuwin Estate also release a more affordable version of the great white grape under their Prelude label. The 2007 Prelude's back label proudly states; 'Ripening conditions were near perfect with fruit showing exceptional intensity of flavour'.

Scented with ripe, peachy, somewhat candied aromas of tropical fruits and toasty vanilla, it proclaims a juicy palate which presents itself in a round, forward manner, with pungent fruit undertones glossed over by a marginal sweetness and creamy yet edgy acids. Leeuwin's 2007 Prelude isn't a bad drink by any means, but it lacks the refinement, style, precision and balance of numerous other Australian chardonnays in this price range.

O Premium Australian chardonnay is a highly competitive market these days, and this just doesn't quite measure up to the best. Drink to 2012.
89 points


4 comments:

  1. Shame to hear the Prelude Chardonnay is still pulling up short. As you say, there is stiff competition at that price point. I think I'll have to give it a miss.

    ReplyDelete
  2. That's very true Jeremy.

    Right now I think Bay of Fires 2008 is the best Australian chardonnay in the $30 price bracket - brilliant stuff it is.

    Cheers mate,
    Chris P

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  3. The 2008 Oakridge for a similar price is a blinder as well

    ReplyDelete
  4. Thanks for the tip! I've seen the 08 Oakridge around for about $24 and it's usually a chardonnay I love. I'll investigate ASAP.

    Thanks very much,
    Chris P

    ReplyDelete