Tasting Notes

• Colour: A deep golden hue, hinting at its extended aging and complexity.

• Aromatics: Layers of honeyed citrus, preserved lemon, roasted almonds, and baked apple, with hints of beeswax and chamomile.

• Palate: A beautifully structured wine with a silky texture and a lingering minerality. Flavours of dried apricot, citrus peel, marzipan, and a touch of brioche unfold across the palate, with a subtle saline edge adding depth.

• Finish: Long, complex, and evolving, with a gentle creaminess balanced by vibrant acidity, ensuring a refreshing, clean finish.

Winemaker’s Note

“Aged Swan Valley whites are a true hidden gem, and this wine proves how well our Chardonnay, Verdelho, and Semillon can evolve over time. The combination of extended lees contact and bottle aging has created a wine that is both textural and fresh, with layers of complexity that continue to develop in the glass. It’s a rare experience for those who may not have had the patience to age a white themselves, offering the chance to enjoy something truly special.”

Sustainability & Natural Practices

John Kosovich Wines is committed to low-intervention winemaking, allowing the natural characteristics of each varietal and vineyard to shine. The wine was matured in stainless steel to preserve its purity while developing a creamy, textural richness from extended lees aging.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Serving Temperature: Best enjoyed slightly chilled at 10–12°C to highlight its layers of flavour.

• Storage: Store in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness and complexity.

• Glassware: A Burgundy or Chardonnay glass will enhance the wine’s aromatics and texture.

• Decanting: Not essential, but letting the wine breathe for 10–15 minutes will allow its intricate aromas to open up.

FAQ Wine Terms Explained

Q: What does 6 years on lees mean?
A: Lees are the spent yeast cells left after fermentation. Keeping the wine on lees for an extended period adds texture, depth, and richness, creating a more complex and layered palate.

Q: Why was stainless steel used instead of oak?
A: Stainless steel preserves the pure fruit character while allowing the extended lees aging to enhance texture without adding oak-derived flavours. This keeps the wine vibrant and fresh, despite its age.

Q: Can this wine be cellared further?
A: Yes! While already aged for 12 years, the wine still has the acidity and structure to continue evolving over the next 3–5 years.

Food Pairing Suggestions

🍽️ Grilled Lobster with Lemon Butter – The wine’s aged complexity pairs beautifully with rich, buttery seafood.
🍽️ Roast Chicken with Almond & Herb Stuffing – The nutty depth of the wine enhances the dish’s savory elements.
🍽️ Miso-Glazed Eggplant – The umami richness complements the wine’s saline and citrus notes.
🍽️ Aged Comté or Gruyère Cheese – A perfect pairing to highlight the wine’s nuttiness and creamy texture.

Technical Details

• Grape Variety: Chardonnay, Verdelho, Semillon

• Region: Swan Valley, Western Australia

• Aging: 6 years on lees + 6 years in bottle

• Alcohol: 12.5% by volume

• Aging Potential: Drink now or cellar for up to 5 more years

• Closure: Screw cap

A rarely seen example of how Swan Valley whites can mature with grace, offering an exceptional balance of fruit purity, texture, and depth. This is a must-try for wine lovers seeking something truly special.

Learn about John Kosovich Wines

John Kosovich Wines located on the northern side of the Swan Valley Wine Region has a long-standing reputation for producing premium quality wines. The family operated winery has a focus on quality boutique wines. Established in 1922, it sits amongst the oldest wineries operating in the Swan Valley and the oldest still run by the founding family.

John Kosovich Winery has forged a reputation for consistently producing wines of the highest order. In particular, their Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc have been recognized among the best white wines that the industry has to offer, while their reds are elegant, refined and easy drinking. The Kosovich philosophy is that the fruit should do the talking, and you will find that our reds are well rounded with oak, tannins and alcohol in harmony.

Read the latest Wine Reviews HERE

Learn more about Decanting your Kosovich Wine

Swan Valley Wine Region

Historical Roots:

The roots of winemaking in the Swan Valley trace back to the early 19th century when European settlers recognised the region’s potential for viticulture. The Mediterranean climate, characterised by warm, dry summers and mild winters, provided an ideal environment for cultivating grapes. Italian and Croatian immigrants, in particular, played a pivotal role in establishing the first vineyards and wineries, introducing their traditional winemaking techniques to the fertile soils of the Swan Valley. The first vines were planted in 1829, making the Swan Valley Australia’s second oldest wine growing region. For the next 150 years, it was WA’s only wine region. And it is still the only wine region in the world, within a 25-minute drive of a major capital city.

Soil and Climate:

The Swan Valley’s terroir is shaped by its unique combination of soils and climate. The soil is predominantly sandy loam, providing excellent drainage for the vines. The warm climate, moderated by the nearby Indian Ocean, creates an optimal grape-growing environment. These factors contribute to the distinct characteristics of Swan Valley wines, marked by bold flavours and a vibrant acidity. Winter generally receives 550-700mm of rain per annum, with the majority falling from June to September. Climate pattens found on the East Coast like El Nino and La Nina have little influence on the region. Instead, winter and spring rain is effected by another climate driver called ‘SAM’ or Southern Annual Mode. Put simply this is the Low Pressure systems that hug Antarctica get pushed further North increasing rain to Southern parts of Western Australia.

You can learn more about this climate driver here: http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/sam/

Changes Over the Last 50 Years:

The past century has witnessed significant changes in the Swan Valley’s winemaking landscape. Technological advancements, changes in viticultural practices, and evolving consumer preferences have influenced the types of grapes grown and the styles of wine produced. The shift towards sustainable and organic practices is also evident, reflecting a commitment to preserving the region’s natural beauty.

Current Trends and Future Directions:

In recent years, Swan Valley wineries have embraced innovation while honouring traditional winemaking techniques. Boutique wineries, in particular, are gaining popularity, offering visitors a more intimate and personalised tasting experience. The region is also witnessing a surge in the production of alternative varieties, catering to a diverse range of palates. As the global wine industry evolves, Swan Valley remains at the forefront of quality and innovation

You can read the latest Swan Valley wine reviews HERE