The 2021 Cloudburst Chardonnay from Margaret River, Western Australia, is a highly praised white wine, demonstrating the exceptional quality of the region’s terroir. This Chardonnay, produced by Cloudburst, boasts an alcohol content of 13.5% and is sealed with a cork closure.
The wine has garnered excellent reviews from several prominent wine critics. Decanter awarded it an impressive 97 points, noting its "herbal fragrance and scented nose" with aromas including "toasted bread, dried herbs, salted crackers, chamomile, white flowers, and dried lemon peel." The review emphasizes the wine's "crystalline purity" with lemon and lime fruit, balanced by a "buttery element" that adds texture. Decanter describes the wine as "serious and knitted - gourmet," highlighting its appealing minerality and spice.
James Suckling also granted this Chardonnay a score of 97, praising its "fantastic balance and depth." He notes a "medium to full body with a density and phenolic tension" that create a "harmonious and sophisticated palate." Suckling identifies flavors of "salted caramel, cooked apple, and light mango," and comments on its "creamy texture." He concludes by suggesting it can be enjoyed now or held for future drinking.
Jane Anson, writing for janeanson.com, echoes the high praise with another 97-point review. She describes the wine as "gloriously beautiful," with notes of "lemon, fig, sage, and lightly spiced pear." Anson highlights the "salt-scraping flinty minerality" and the wine's powerful but nuanced balance, calling it "so so good."
The Wine Independent gave the 2021 Cloudburst Chardonnay a score of 96, mentioning its "vibrant notes of white peaches, fresh pears, and orange blossom." They point out additional suggestions of "almond croissant, struck flint, and cedar," and commend its "energetic and vibrant" medium-bodied palate with a "well-knit line of racy acidity and long, minerally finish."
Overall, the 2021 Cloudburst Chardonnay is a well-crafted wine that has received high acclaim for its complexity, balance, and distinctive minerality. It reflects the meticulous biodynamic farming practices of winemaker Will Berliner, and offers a refined and sophisticated drinking experience.