Premier is the signature Chardonnay of Vasse Felix. It is made from a selection of premier Chardonnay parcels from Vasse Felix’s Vineyards in a modern Margaret River style with elegance, power, and restraint.

2017 was a cooler and later vintage than the previous 10 years; a year of elegant, perhaps slightly lighter-bodied wines, though ripe in flavor. Higher than average yields in combination with a cooler season contributed to delayed ripening of the fruit and good acid retention. Some timely warmth and sunshine occurred throughout January, although February temperatures remained moderate with some rainfall. With the cooler weather, canopy management and fruit thinning were imperative to mitigate disease pressures and allow for even, persistent ripening. There was a warm start to March to finish the white harvest.

Despite the cool conditions, beautiful ripeness was achieved with perfect sugar levels and elegant fruit perfumes. We allowed the fruit to undergo malolactic fermentation due to its high natural acidity, though it is not an obvious feature of the wine. The fruit was hand-harvested and chilled, gently whole bunch pressed and transferred to French oak barriques as unclarified juice. The juice was fermented with only natural yeasts from the vineyard. Each parcel was left on lees in barrel for 9 months of maturation with battonage, improving body and texture. Approximately 76% of the fruit is Gingin clones and 24% from Bernard clones 95, 96, and 76. The majority of the fruit was sourced from our Karridale and Wilyabrup vineyards, with a small portion from our new vineyard in Wallcliffe.

Pale straw with a green tinge. A subdued yet complex perfume of lemon blossom, lime, and ginger, with delicate hints of brioche and pine needles. Savory overtones of bread crust, almond, and spicy oak bring depth to the intriguing fragrance. The soft creamy texture, polished acidity, and light, dry tannin finish combine to create an incredible body and mouthfeel. Lovely citrus flavors mingle with hints of crushed dry vine leaf and kaffir lime. Not overtly fruity in this cool vintage, the wine is delicate and textured, with pure balance.