Stella Bella, Suckfizzle Chardonnay, Margaret River, Australia, 2023

Producer Profile

This boutique winery in the heart of Margaret River creates idiosyncratically named ranges like Suckfizzle with a low-intervention, organic ethos approach that allows their cherished vineyards to show their quality.

It is not merely the names of these wines that are memorable: once you have tasted them, you will see why winemaker Jarrad Olsen, who came from Vasse Felix continues to receive recognition and awards from around the world for wines that have that wonderful Margaret River restraint and elegance, but are bound together with a fruit purity that makes them nothing short of delectable.

Viticulture

The most southern and unique vineyard in the Margaret River Region. Situated in Augusta, surrounded by the Southern and Indian Oceans and just a stone’s throw from the Blackwood River inlet. This extraordinary location is influenced by the prevailing Antarctic winds of the Southern Ocean and moderated by the warmth of the mighty Blackwood river. By day it is 4-5 degrees cooler than Margaret River and by night it is 2-3 degrees warmer. Thus, creating wines with distinct flavour, character and age-ability.

Winemaking

With a load of character and flavour this incredible fruit was hand picked, whole bunch pressed and wild fermented on full solids in French oak barriques for 10 months with minimal battonage and 25% MLF. Unfined to show the raw power of this vineyard.

Tasting Note

Pale straw with lime hues. Salty, sea-sprayed fruit contributes to a unique and complex oyster shell character which immediately grabs your attention. Bright, pure notes of lemon, lime, and subtle white florals lift the aromatic profile, adding layers of freshness and intensity. Textured and mouth-watering, there is a perfect balance between the fruit and the oak. Vibrant flavours of lime, lemon and pink grapefruit unfold complemented by a hint of ripe stone fruit. Lovely saline acidity and luscious texture. Pure, powerful and unparalleled Chardonnay.

Food matching

Papparedelle with mushroom ragù