2018 Stella Bella Suckfizzle Chardonnay 750ml

Stella Bella is a boutique winery with vineyards around the Margaret River region. Janice McDonald and Stuart Pym took over the southern Suckfizzle vineyard (then called Augusta) in 1996 and Stella Bella was born. Ever since, the winery has won numerous awards and accolades for many of their wines. They have the highest rating, five red stars, bestowed by wine writer James Halliday, signaling consistent production of quality wines. Vineyards are in Wallcliffe, Rosa Brook and Karridale (all in Central and Southern Margaret River), each with their own micro-climate and soil types. All vines are all on their own roots (and not on root stock). Practice is to use minimal chemical inputs or fertilizers in all vineyards and every block is picked and vinified separately.

   Don't let the funny name and strangly artistic label fool you, this juice is exceptional and already drinking wonderfuly. At first glance you will notice lime colored hues mixing with the typical yellow of the Chardonnay. Winds from Antarctica help give this wine a distinction. Salty, sea-sprayed fruit contributes to a unique and complex oyster shell character. Salty nougat, nutty character, peach fuzz, zesty citrus and smoky oak round out the generous nose. Incredible power of fruit. Textured and mouthwatering, there is obvious chemistry between the fruit and the oak. Flavors of crushed lime, lemon and sea salt. Lively mineral acidity and layered texture. Pure, powerful and unparalleled, this wine will pair perfectly with fresh seafood, sushi or grilled fish or mushroom ragù. 

   97-pts James Suckling - "This has a slightly reductive edge to the nose with sliced-lemon, grilled-almond and peach character. Really fresh and pristine. The palate has a very impressive, concentrated feel with nectarines, peaches and citrus fruit. So pure and long."