Reviews:

Partners In Wine WA Tasting Review:
A great value for money Chardonnay. Yes, it’s very lightly oaked but it’s subtle enough to still notice it. Without doubt serving this at the right temperature is super important. Serve it really cold straight out of the fridge and you are going to get some of the stone fruits, but most of it is going to go missing. Just let it sit for 10 mins and warm up a fraction and watch this come to life. On that note don’t forget to check out our serving temp recommendations HERE

BWU20 Review: 92 pts – Kim Brebach:
Pemberton in the Great Southern of Western Australia tends to make delicate whites, and so it is here. Elegant white stone fruits and cashews, a hint of toasty vanilla oak, a touch of cream on the palate, all well-behaved and seamless. White fish would be a good match.

Tasting Notes:

Colour: Straw yellow with a subtle green tinge.

Aromatics: Lifted aromas of fresh citrus and delicate cashew nuts, complemented by hints of brioche and toast.

Palate: A beautifully textured, medium-bodied wine unfolds vibrant flavours of white peach and nectarine, balanced by a whisper of oak spice that adds depth. The finish is long, elegant, and refined.

Winemaker’s Note:

“Our inspiration for The Bowers Chardonnay came from the resilience of our Pemberton vineyards during the challenging 2022 vintage. Despite the delayed harvest, the fruit ripened to reveal an exceptional balance of vibrant acidity and lush texture. I wanted to create a wine that truly expresses the purity and complexity of our fruit, while remaining sustainably crafted. Every sip tells a story of our commitment to quality and respect for nature.” – Silkwood Winemaker, Michael Ng

Sustainability & Natural Practices:

At Silkwood Estate, we are dedicated to eco-friendly winemaking. Our minimal intervention approach allows the grapes to express their natural character, reducing the need for additives while preserving the unique attributes of the Pemberton region. This method not only enhances the wine’s authenticity but also benefits the environment by reducing our carbon footprint.

Additional Storage & Serving Tips:

• Serving Temperature: Best enjoyed at 8–10°C. This temperature enhances the wine’s creamy texture and fresh citrus notes without muting its complexity.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dark place with consistent humidity to maintain its delicate balance.
• Before Serving: If stored in the fridge at 5°C, remove the bottle and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 7 minutes before serving.

FAQ:

Q: What does ‘minimal intervention’ mean? A: It means we allow the natural characteristics of the grapes to shine through with fewer additives, ensuring an authentic expression of the terroir.

Q: Why is the wine slightly cloudy? A: The slight haze is a result of our minimal filtration process, preserving the wine’s natural texture and rustic charm.

Q: How did the 2022 vintage conditions affect this Chardonnay? A: Pemberton experienced a delayed harvest due to a very hot start, which allowed the fruit to develop pronounced purity and vibrant acidity, resulting in a wine that is both fresh and complex.

Food Pairing Suggestions:

• Grilled Chicken with Herbs: Complements the wine’s rich texture and citrus balance.
• Seafood: Ideal with lightly seasoned grilled fish or scallops.
• Creamy Pasta: Its subtle oak spice pairs beautifully with rich, creamy pasta dishes.

Technical Details:

• Grape Variety: Chardonnay
• Region: Pemberton, Western Australia
• Alcohol: 13.5% by volume (approx. 8 standard drinks)
• Oak Maturation: 10 months in 25% new French oak barriques
• Ageing Potential: 5–8 years

• Closure: Screw cap

Learn About Silkwood

Silkwood Wines is located in the Pemberton Wine Region and was established in 1998, chosen for its exceptional location in the heart of Pemberton, a region celebrated for its unique growing conditions. The temperate climate, gently undulating landscape, and rich gravelly loam soils, which overlay a clay base, were instrumental in the selection process. These factors mirror the qualities that Professor Gladstone noted as ideal for viticulture, ensuring the site’s potential for producing exceptional wines.

The vineyard is situated amidst the majestic Karri and Jarrah forests, which are iconic to Pemberton. This stunning environment not only provides a breathtaking backdrop but also influences the character of our wines, adding a distinct regional flair that sets Silkwood Estate apart. The interplay between the natural beauty and the terroir of Pemberton creates an ideal setting for growing premium grapes.

In 2006, the Bowman family took over Silkwood Winery, bringing with them a philosophy centred on producing quality wines while also cultivating an enjoyable environment for wine enthusiasts. Since then, our focus has been on maintaining the highest standards in winemaking and creating an inviting atmosphere where visitors can appreciate both our wines and the surrounding beauty.

Although we are a small team, our passion for winemaking is immense. We take great pride in the widespread acclaim and numerous awards our wines have garnered over the years. As a boutique winery, we remain committed to producing exceptional quality wines and providing a memorable experience for our clients. We cherish the opportunity to showcase the exquisite part of the world that is Pemberton and invite you to explore the unique character of our wines, crafted with dedication and respect for this remarkable region.

Read the latest wine reviews from Silkwood Estate HERE