- Winery: Passel Estate
- Wine Region: Margaret River, Western Australia
- Variety: Chardonnay
- Vintage: 2023
- Price: $46
- Find it: From the winery direct
- ABV: 12%
- You’ll like this if: You like a balanced Chardonnay
- Body: Medium
- Mouthfeel: Creamy
- Taste: Vibrant, lively, textured
- Flavours: Nectarine, grapefruit, nutty
- Enjoy it with: Any occasion
- Food pairings: Roast chicken, seafood
Wine review: Passel Estate Chardonnay 2023
I recently opened the Passel Estate Chardonnay 2023, and it was exactly the kind of white I love having in the fridge for when the mood strikes for a delicious Chardonnay, which in our house is very frequently! It’s fresh, vibrant and just a little bit indulgent. This is the kind of Chardonnay that my husband is obsessed with, and so I had to fend him off to make sure I got some too! If you love Chardonnay that delivers on all fronts, this one is for you. In the glass, it’s a pretty light green with soft straw hints, and the aromatics jump straight out. Think nectarines, pear and grapefruit. There’s also a gentle nutty note alongside crème brûlée that gives it a subtle creamy warmth without feeling heavy. It smells bright and inviting, but with just enough going on to keep things interesting.
On the palate, the Passel Estate Chardonnay 2023 is juicy and energetic from the first sip. A line of natural acidity keeps everything crisp and lively, carrying flavours of grapefruit, pear and nectarine through the middle. There’s lovely texture and a bit of weight, with lovely toasty brioche, but it’s balanced by a fresh, mineral lift. French oak adds a soft spice and roundness, supporting the fruit rather than stealing the show. The finish is long, clean and refreshing. It’s a beautifully balanced Chardonnay that would be perfect with roast chicken, seafood, or even just a sunny afternoon and good company.
About Passel Estate
Passel Estate is a small, single-vineyard winery in Margaret River founded by Wendy and Barry Stimpson, who were drawn to the region’s natural beauty and exceptional winegrowing reputation. After relocating to Margaret River in 2005, they established Passel Estate in 2011 on a picturesque property featuring established vines and native bushland. The vineyard, first planted in 1994, is carefully managed to prioritise quality over quantity, with thoughtful site selection, meticulous viticulture practices, and a focus on sustainability as a certified member of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia.
Under the stewardship of experienced viticulturist Tim Quinlan and highly regarded winemaker Bruce Dukes, Passel Estate produces wines that are refined, expressive, and true to place. Combining scientific rigour with artisanal craftsmanship, the team crafts small-batch wines defined by perfumed fruit, structure, and balance, making Passel Estate a distinctive and sought-after discovery within Margaret River’s prestigious wine landscape.
You can learn more on their website.
Note: This wine was sent as a sample. I was under no obligation to post about it.