Domaine Naturaliste Floris Chardonnay 2019

96 Points & 5 Stars Huon Hooke
94 Points Gary Walsh

By Bruce Dukes

Floris is a modern and engaging expression of our local clone into wine. This style is a co-evolution of Modern Australian food and wine culture, which has great emphasis on balance, freshness and hedonistic pleasure. The sustainably farmed vineyard is in the cool southern end of Margaret River. Floris exhibits delicate textures and floral notes reminiscent of white jasmine flowers.

A long and gentle vintage weather pattern, slightly cooler than the long-term average. The fruit gained lovely perfumes and textures while maintaining a magnificent verve. Gin Gin clone Chardonnay

Restricted malo‐lactic fermentation, battonage fortnightly to add complexity and texture through “sur lie” whilst retaining purity of character and freshness. Fermented and matured in 1/3 new 228L French oak barriques for 10 months. The wood is primarily from the Vosges and Allier forests

“White flowers and vanilla, spice, lime and white nectarine or something like that. Maybe it’s pear? Doesn’t matter really, it’s just a very good smelling wine. Medium-bodied, soft but with a citrus crunch, lime rind and flinty texture, a subtle almond creaminess, tight and juicy on a long finish, perhaps some green olive in the mix as it goes. Such a good thing to drink. Hooray!’ – 94 Points Gary Walsh

“Very light, bright yellow colour. A reserved bouquet of subtle smoky, nutty and toasty nuances; gentle sulfides. The palate is round and soft, rich and fleshy, with tremendous depth and density. The acidity is energising and the palate superbly penetrative and lingering. A top chardonnay.” – 96 Points & 5 Stars Huon Hooke