Si Vintners, 'Ada' Chardonnay 2020

Margaret River produces world class Chardonnay (serious collector favourites Leeuwin Art Series and Cullen's Kevin John come to mind), and this is made in a classic style, with 20% new oak, but with that special light touch that the best low intervention, "sense of place" winemakers achieve when they get it right. Husband and wife, Sarah and Iwo, follow biodynamic practices, farm organically, and for the Ada Chard follow simple winemaking protocols with hand harvested grapes, whole-bunch pressing, fermenting in used 500-litre puncheons, then blending into stainless steel after 12 months to settle and come together, with minimal sulphur addition at blending. The result is a combination of classic power of Margaret River Chardonnay but stripped back somewhat to make a surprisingly intense yet light and bright, almost Chablis-esque, wine with lively acidity balancing out a fruit notes and finishing with a gentle nuttiness on the palate (from the oak).

The wine is named after Ido's (peroxide blonde) sister, who had been waiting to have a wine named after her since they made Sophie Rosé named after Sarah’s sister.