Nikola Estate Chenin Blanc 2025

Awards

Gold Medal and 95 Points
Swan Valley Wine Show

94 Points – Ray Jordan
A top year for Chenin in the Swan Valley and he notes this release stacks up with the very best from Nikola. Praised for its balance, flavour and length, with melon and light citrus on the nose, crunchy acidity and a bite of tropical fruits on the palate. Delicious now with the potential for medium term cellaring.

Tasting Notes

• Colour
  Pale straw with a bright, youthful sheen.
• Aromatics
  Lifted citrus zest and lemon oil with notes of red apple, nectarine and delicate stone fruits. Hints of melon and just ripe strawberry add extra interest and charm.
• Palate
  Finely balanced and textural. A talc like mouthfeel carries layers of crisp pomme fruit and granny smith apple. Subtle touches of strawberry and tropical fruits add generosity while the crunchy acidity keeps everything focused and refreshing.
• Finish
  Long, aromatic and refined with lingering citrus, apple and mineral lift.

Winemaker’s Note

Fruit is sourced entirely from plot 7, planted in 1963, a rare block of old vine Chenin Blanc. The fruit was picked at optimal ripeness, then matured on fine lees before bottling in July 2025. The result is a wine that combines depth and generosity from old vines with the brightness and purity that Swan Valley Chenin is known for.

Viticulture and Winemaking

• Region: Swan Valley, Western Australia

• Variety: 100 percent Chenin Blanc

• Vineyard: Plot 7, old vines planted 1963

• Harvest: Early January in a warm, early season that delivered excellent quality fruit from well managed blocks

• Winemaking:

  • Carefully picked and gently handled to protect aromatics

  • Maturation on fine lees to build texture and complexity

  • Bottled July 2025 to capture freshness and aromatic lift

Technical Details

• Alcohol: 13 %

• pH: 3.23

• TA: 6.0 g per litre

Serving and Cellaring

• Serving Temperature: 8 degrees for maximum refreshment and aromatics

• Cellaring Potential: Enjoy now for its energy and crunch or cellar 5 to 8 years as it develops honey, toast and lanolin complexity

Food Pairing Suggestions

• Crispy pork belly with apple and fennel salad

• Grilled fish tacos with lime and cabbage slaw

• Soft rind cheeses and washed rind styles

• Vietnamese chicken salad with mint and coriander

• Roast chicken with lemon and garlic

FAQ 🧐

Why does old vine Chenin matter?
Older vines tend to produce lower yields with greater concentration, giving more depth and texture in the glass.

Will it age like Loire Chenin?
Swan Valley Chenin has an excellent track record for ageing. Expect this to develop honeyed, toasty and nutty notes over time while retaining its core of citrus and apple.

Is it only for Chenin fans?
Not at all. If you enjoy high quality Riesling, Chardonnay or Fiano, this offers a similar mix of freshness, texture and food friendliness.

A brilliant example of modern Swan Valley Chenin Blanc that combines history, precision and sheer drinkability. 🍏🍋