2023 Sandalford Winemakers Classic White
The Winemakers Range of wines are typically a blend of both the Margaret River and Swan Valley wine growing regions. The riper, richer notes from the Swan Valley compliment the elegant and sophisticated flavours from the cooler climate of Margaret River. These wines are about imminent drinkability and crafted to suit a wide range of food. Or simply enjoy a chilled glass on its own. As always, enjoy in moderation.
Winemaker comments
Winemaker Notes
This wine was made from Chenin Blanc, Semillon and Chardonnay grapes from both the Margaret River and Swan Valley wine growing regions. Fruit was picked in the cool of the night during the month of February 2023. Following crushing, pressing and settling, the racked juice underwent a cool fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve the natural fruit flavours. Well suited to a wide range of foods, or simply enjoy on its own.
Meet the maker
By the time I turned 18, I had become fascinated with wine. I was keen to learn as much about wine as I could and I received some great advice: to work in the industry before committing to any tertiary study....
Continue Reading > I was lucky enough to get my start at the cellars at Houghton Wines, here in the Swan Valley. I loved it, and it was the beginning of a career which was to eventually see me spend 20 years with Houghton’s. But first, I wanted to discover what traditional winemaking was like in the northern hemisphere. I took myself off to Burgundy, France, where I worked several vintages learning as much as I could about the craft of winemaking from some the best in the business. Returning to Australia I continued my career, picking up a few awards in the process of learning more and more about winemaking and achieving Bachelor of Applied Science and Oenology at Charles Sturt University, NSW. I was awarded the inaugural Gourmet Traveler Young Winemaker of the Year 2001, James Halliday’s Winemaker of the year in 2009, Winemaker of the Year in Ray Jordan's 2017 Annual West Australian Wine Guide, and I’ve judged extensively at capital city and regional wine shows. Australia makes some amazing world class wines! I’ve been fortunate to be Senior Winemaker at Sandalford Wines since March 2021 and I’m delighted every day by our estates’ old vines, the passion of the viticulture team here, and the outcomes we are able to achieve each vintage.
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Continue Reading > I was lucky enough to get my start at the cellars at Houghton Wines, here in the Swan Valley. I loved it, and it was the beginning of a career which was to eventually see me spend 20 years with Houghton’s. But first, I wanted to discover what traditional winemaking was like in the northern hemisphere. I took myself off to Burgundy, France, where I worked several vintages learning as much as I could about the craft of winemaking from some the best in the business. Returning to Australia I continued my career, picking up a few awards in the process of learning more and more about winemaking and achieving Bachelor of Applied Science and Oenology at Charles Sturt University, NSW. I was awarded the inaugural Gourmet Traveler Young Winemaker of the Year 2001, James Halliday’s Winemaker of the year in 2009, Winemaker of the Year in Ray Jordan's 2017 Annual West Australian Wine Guide, and I’ve judged extensively at capital city and regional wine shows. Australia makes some amazing world class wines! I’ve been fortunate to be Senior Winemaker at Sandalford Wines since March 2021 and I’m delighted every day by our estates’ old vines, the passion of the viticulture team here, and the outcomes we are able to achieve each vintage.
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Tasting notes
Varietals
Varietal
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc
Colour
Nose
Palate
Tasting Note
Abundant tropical fruits, citrus and passionfruit flavours abound. The aromas of the nose follow onto the palate. These flavours are carried by bright, fresh acidity leading to a sustained clean finish. Well balanced and wonderful length of flavour. A drink now style – and don’t be afraid to throw in an ice cube or two during the summer months.
Vintage Conditions
Vineyard Notes
The spring rainfall preceding the 2023 vintage was the second highest on record in Western Australia. Additionally, the maximum temperatures for spring were very much below average for most of the south west of the state. The persistent rainfall and cool conditions during spring season promoted lush, healthy canopies with moderate crop levels. The Summer arrived with some timely warm weather in December and January to get things going in the vineyard. It is fair to say that the 2023 seasonal conditions have delivered one of the highest quality vintages seen for well over a decade.
