Known as one of Australia’s great Chardonnays, Devil’s Lair has refined its style in recent years, opting for crisper acidity and fresher fruit flavours. The grapes are grown entirely on Devil’s Lair’s estate and are picked based on optimal ripeness to create the layers of the wine. The vineyard is located in a premier Margaret River position, allowing for a longer, even ripening period.

The wine shows typical stone fruit and melon fruit characters on the nose with nectarine, granny smith and grapefruit flavours on the palate. People fearing the old school buttery, flabby Chardonnays of Australia’s earlier years need not apply – the judicious use of oak frames the delicious fruit and creamy texture has been replaced by cool reserve. Overall this is a superbly balanced wine of great finesse.

Producer: Devil’s Lair

Grape variety: Chardonnay

Vintage: 2006

Region: Margaret River, Western Australia

Drink: Now – 6 years

Food: Aged cheddar cheese, figs and prosciutto