Savaterre 2024 'Frère Cadet' Chardonnay
2023 Frere Cadet Chardonnay - "An exceptional vintage, which in Beechworth equals exceptional chardonnay. You won't be disappointed. Made in the style of Savaterre chardonnay with fruit sourced from a nearby vineyard, it brings the same luxurious class to the grape. Intense, fragrant aromas and layers of flavour in Asian pear, lemon tart, lime zest, white peach and summer stone fruits with toasted hazelnuts. Offers a multi-dimensional escape into chardonnay where richness meets complexity meets a fine-edged acid tension meets warm toasted oak neets delicious drinking. It's chewy and nicely grippy to close, with spice lasting long into the finish. - Rated: 95 Points"
Jenni Port - Halliday Wine Companion
2023 Frere Cadet Chardonnay - "Trademark struck match and curry leaf reduction defines the opening before a push through of peach skin, dehydrated lime, fine cedar, riverstone minerality and citrus preserves. Time in the glass reveals the wine's nutty notes in the form of cashew and almond adding savoury complexity. The palate has power and glycerol-like texture and that's quickly sliced up by assertive structure. White peach, ripe nectarine, preserved lime, lime zest and cashew drive through the mouth buoyed and drawn in by bright and powerful lime-laced acidity and chalky grip to long length. For a cuvée name that translates to 'little brother, there's nothing little about it. Power and complexity in lovely balance. Drink from 2025-2031 - Rated: 94 Points"
Jasper Morris - Inside Burgundy
Frère Cadet is made identically as the Estate chardonnay. The same care attention to old world traditions. Unrushed, allowing nature to do the work at her own pace.
The only difference is the vineyard, run by some talented vignerons, located a few kilometers from Savaterre in the Beechworth region.
2024 Tasting Notes
This is a finer more defined 'Frère Cadet'. On the nose lifted floral notes of lime blossom and gardenia combine with aromas of white nectarine, grapefruit, grilled nuts, praline, brioche, cinnamon, cardamon and flint.
The palate is a delight. Purer enjoyment. Mouth filling juicy minerality. Amazing structure. Such length and precision. Just the right amount of “grip” on the finish.
This wine makes you salivate with anticipation of the next sip.
The flavours and texture go on and on with glimpses of pear, white peach/nectarine, pink grapefruit. I won’t go on but you get the idea.
Precise, textured and powerful with a beautiful spine of acidity to frame this delightful experience. I consider this version the best 'Frère Cadet' yet.
While it it is labelled Frère Cadet (younger brother) it is by no means a second wine.
Only one from a different Terroir.