Domaine Naturaliste Artus Chardonnay 2023

Domaine Naturaliste Artus Chardonnay 2023Founded by winemaker Bruce Dukes, who brought nearly 30 years of experience in Margaret River, Domaine Naturaliste reflects his deep agronomic understanding. With a background in agricultural science, Dukes prioritizes soil health, sustainability, and a holistic, terroir driven winemaking philosophy. The vineyard is nestled in the heart of the Wilyabrup sub region of Margaret River, Western Australia. The vineyard sits on gravelly loam soils about 7

Founded by winemaker Bruce Dukes, who brought nearly 30 years of experience in Margaret River, Domaine Naturaliste reflects his deep agronomic understanding. With a background in agricultural science, Dukes prioritizes soil health, sustainability, and a holistic, terroir-driven winemaking philosophy. 

The vineyard is nestled in the heart of the Wilyabrup sub-region of Margaret River, Western Australia. The vineyard sits on gravelly loam soils about 7 km inland from the Indian Ocean, benefiting from a maritime climate of cool, wet winters and warm, gentle summers.

Artus is an artistic translation of local Gin Gin clone into wine. It is a provocative, complex and textural wine exuding the seductive spirit of “old world” chardonnay. The vines have been managed to allow only dappled light into the fruiting zone. This promotes flavor development, low tannins and bright levels of natural acidity. The fruit is farmed in the cool southern end of Margaret River. The tiny 100g Gin Gin clusters are hand harvested at first light to preserve freshness of fruit.

Hand-picked, whole bunch pressed, wild yeasts full Malo-lactic fermentation and aged in 40% new 228ltr medium toast Vosges and Allier for 10 months.

Tasting Notes

"While it always comes out as a bit of a powerhouse flavour-wise and in structure, this is backed up by fine acidity, driving this long. It also keeps the substantial flavours of savoury oak, creamed-honey lees and grapefruit in check. Some flinty, funky sulphides add an extra dimension of complexity as it continues to build on the palate". 96 Points - Halliday Wine Companion, Jane Faulkner (2025).