Silkwood The Bowers Chardonnay 2022

Accolades

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.

Wine Companion

A neat and tidy, medium-weight and peachy chardonnay. Easy on the palate, pretty in the perfume, soft in texture. A glowing, shiny suite of stone fruits, nougat and sugared almond works its magic. It feels quite full flavoured yet refreshing at its weight. Quite simple, too, but with easy appeal.

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