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Stella Bella
 
15 November 2024 | Stella Bella

Brewing Microbial Tea for a Healthier Vineyard: A Sustainable Soil Solution

 

What is Microbial Tea?

Microbial tea is a potent, beneficial blend of microbes—including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and nematodes—that we apply to our vineyard soil to enrich and revitalise it. This concentrated solution, rich in microbial diversity, promotes soil health, supporting the vines in growing stronger, and yielding better grapes.

Why is Microbial Tea Important?

By enhancing soil structure and increasing microbial diversity, microbial tea boosts natural nutrient cycles, builds resistance to pests & diseases, and improves overall vineyard resilience. This approach to soil care is a step towards sustainable, natural viticulture that has long-term benefits for our vineyard ecosystem.

What’s in the Microbial Tea Mix?

Our compost tea starts with carefully selected, nutrient-rich ingredients:

- Composted grape marc – the skins, seeds, and stems leftover from pressing, bringing a unique grape profile to the compost.

- Nitrogen sources – like manure, which enriches the compost.

- Organic matter – including grass cuttings and old, mulched grapevine canes, which add structure and nutrients to the blend.

Each element of this blend is key to creating a microbial tea rich in diverse, beneficial organisms that are essential for vineyard soil health.

We bring this all together from our existing vineyards, to keep the end product truly sustainable and local.

How We Brew Microbial Tea for the Vineyard

Brewing microbial tea is a precise process that combines care and science. We begin with a fungal boost to create the base "fungal compost mixture." Here’s a step-by-step of our brewing method:

1. Fungal Preparation

   We mix our compost with water, **fish hydrolysate**, and a touch of kelp, ensuring the environment is warm to encourage the growth of beneficial fungi. When a fuzzy growth appears, it’s a sign the fungi are thriving and the mixture is ready.

2. Brewing the Tea 

   The compost mixture is placed in a permeable ‘tea bag’ and submerged in a 1000L brewer, where it’s aerated to keep the microbial life active. After a couple of days, the tea is fully brewed and ready for application across the vineyard soil.

Benefits of Microbial Tea in Vineyards

Microbial tea introduces a surge of life into the soil, which supports vine health in various ways. One visible indicator of the tea's effectiveness is the increase in **earthworm activity**. Earthworms play an essential role by

- Burrowing to improve soil structure, allowing roots easier access to water and nutrients.

- Decomposing organic matter, releasing vital nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus for the vines.

Mycorrhizal Fungi: The Vineyard’s Hidden Allies

Among the microbial tea’s essential components are **mycorrhizal fungi**, which form a unique, mutually beneficial bond with the grapevines. Like yeast, mycorrhizal fungi grow under the right conditions and send out fine hyphal threads that connect with the vines' roots. This network transports soil nutrients directly to the roots, enhancing vine health and grape quality.

In return, the vines provide the fungi with sugars, forming a true **symbiotic relationship** that supports both plant and fungal growth.

How Microbial Tea Promotes Sustainability in Vineyards

Our use of microbial tea is a core part of our sustainable vineyard management. By enhancing soil health naturally, we reduce our reliance on synthetic fertilisers and herbicides. Living, nutrient-rich soil not only means healthier vines but also yields grapes with richer, more complex flavours, which in turn improves our wines.

Long-Term Benefits for Our Vineyard

This approach to soil health results in a resilient vineyard that thrives through natural processes, balancing soil pH, reducing erosion, and minimising pest outbreaks. The reduced dependence on chemical additives not only preserves the environment but also enhances the longevity of our vineyard.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

# 1. What makes microbial tea different from traditional fertilisers?

Microbial tea uses natural, living organisms to enhance soil health, unlike traditional fertilisers, which primarily supply immediate nutrients but lack live microbes. Microbial tea promotes a more balanced ecosystem, fostering sustained soil vitality. This helps us to reduce our reliance on synthetic fertilisers. 

# 2. How often should microbial tea be applied in vineyards?

Frequency depends on soil conditions and specific vineyard needs. Generally, microbial tea can be applied every few weeks during the growing season to maintain a thriving microbial community.

# 3. Can microbial tea reduce the need for pesticides?

Yes, healthier soil with a diverse microbial population often reduces the incidence of pest outbreaks. Strong microbial activity can naturally suppress pathogens and support vine resilience.

# 4. Is microbial tea effective for all types of vineyards?

Microbial tea benefits most vineyards, especially those with depleted or compacted soils. However, the precise effects vary based on existing soil health and environmental factors.

# 5. Are there specific environmental conditions required to apply microbial tea?

Applying microbial tea in moderate temperatures, ideally early morning or late afternoon, can prevent sun exposure from killing the beneficial microbes. Maintaining soil moisture also improves microbial survival rates.

# 6. How long does it take to see results from microbial tea in the vineyard?

Initial signs, such as increased earthworm activity, may appear within weeks. However, for more substantial changes in vine health and soil structure, it may take a few seasons of consistent application.

Conclusion: Embracing Microbial Tea for a Healthier Vineyard and Superior Wines

In summary, microbial tea is a vital tool for soil health, supporting the vineyard ecosystem naturally and sustainably. By using microbial tea, we foster soil vitality, improve vine health, and reduce dependence on synthetic additives—qualities that contribute directly to the unique character and quality of our wines. From the earthworms to the mycorrhizal fungi, each microbial ally plays a role in producing wines that reflect the richness of our vineyard’s soil.

Time Posted: 15/11/2024 at 11:32 AM Permalink to Brewing Microbial Tea for a Healthier Vineyard: A Sustainable Soil Solution Permalink
Stella Bella
 
6 September 2024 | Stella Bella

2023 Single Vineyard Chardonnay Release

 

At Stella Bella, crafting exceptional wines is in our DNA, and this year, we’re excited to share two iconic releases from our single vineyard range—the 2023 Luminosa Chardonnay and Suckfizzle Chardonnay.

A Legacy of Excellence
Both Chardonnays have built an extraordinary legacy over the years, consistently receiving top accolades across the wine industry. The 2022 Luminosa Chardonnay left a lasting impression, winning 4 Trophies, 9 Gold Medals, and earning a prestigious Best in Show award at the Decanter World Wine Awards—placing it in the Top 50 out of more than 18,000 wines globally. This success speaks volumes about the dedication and attention to detail that goes into every bottle.

Not to be outdone, the 2022 Suckfizzle Chardonnay also captured 4 Trophies and 8 Gold Medals. What makes this even more remarkable is that we’ve only entered the Suckfizzle Chardonnay in the Margaret River Wine Show twice—and it has claimed the title of Wine of Show both times. Talk about a track record.

What Sets These Wines Apart
Each year, these single vineyard Chardonnays capture the essence of both our land and the season, making each vintage a unique expression of nature’s influence on our craft. And the 2023 vintage is no exception.

2023 Luminosa Chardonnay:
The 2023 vintage of Luminosa Chardonnay developed with a much milder ripening period, despite being harvested within just two days of the 2022 vintage. This year’s wine is all about elegance and precision. Expect bursts of citrus pith and ripe peach, with an underlying minerality that brings refreshing focus to the wine. Subtle notes of sea spray and flint, paired with restrained oak, culminate in a core of powerful, Gin Gin Chardonnay—making this year’s Luminosa a pure, focused reflection of our vineyard and the season.

2023 Suckfizzle Chardonnay:
The 2023 Suckfizzle Chardonnay brings something extra special this year. In 2023, the flavour ripeness peaked at a lower Baume than the previous vintage, preserving a remarkable freshness. The maritime influence of the Blackwood River estuary is unmistakable, with vibrant notes of oyster shell and citrus. A more subtle peach character emerges this year, adding richness and complexity. This wine embodies both power and precision, with a distinct estuarine minerality that leaves a lasting impression.

Time Posted: 06/09/2024 at 11:56 AM Permalink to 2023 Single Vineyard Chardonnay Release Permalink
Stella Bella
 
19 June 2024 | Stella Bella

Luminosa Chardonnay 2022: A Triumph on the World Stage

 

At Stella Bella, we are thrilled to announce the incredible success of our iconic Luminosa Chardonnay 2022, which has been recognised as one of the finest wines in the world. Winning a Best in Show Award at the Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) 2024. This is a testament to the dedication and passion of our viticultural and winemaking teams.

About the Decanter World Wine Awards
Now in its 21st year, the Decanter World Wine Awards has firmly established itself as the world’s largest and most influential wine competition. Known for its rigorous judging process and the expertise of its world-class judges, the DWWA is respected globally by both the trade and consumers. Winning a Best in Show Award places Luminosa Chardonnay 2022 in the top 50 wines of over 18,000 entries worldwide.

Luminosa: Excellence in Every Drop
Farmed with an attention to detail second to none, Luminosa is a wine of fruit purity, elegance, and complexity. Our meticulous care in the vineyard and the winery ensures that each bottle of Luminosa is a unique expression of the Southern Margaret River terroir.

Accolades for Luminosa Chardonnay 2022
Luminosa Chardonnay 2022 has garnered an impressive array of awards, further solidifying its place as a leading Chardonnay in Australia and beyond:

- Best In Show - Decanter World Wine Awards 2024
- Trophy - Best Chardonnay - Royal Queensland Wine Awards 2023
- Trophy - Best White Table Wine of Show - Royal Queensland Wine Awards 2023
- Trophy - Best Chardonnay - Royal Adelaide Wine Show 2023
- Trophy - Most Outstanding White Wine of Show - Royal Adelaide Wine Show 2023
- Gold Medal - Royal Melbourne Wine Awards 2023
- Gold Medal - Perth Royal Wine Awards 2023
- Gold Medal - Wine Show of WA 2023
- Gold Medal - Margaret River Wine Show 2023
- Gold Medal + 97 Points - International Wine & Spirits Competition 2023 (Top Rated Chardonnay)
- Gold Medal - Halliday Chardonnay & Cabernet Challenge 2023
- Gold Medal - National Wine Show of Australia 2024
- 97 Points - Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion, Feb 2024
- 97 Points - Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate, Dec 2023
- 97 Points - Aaron Brasher, The Real Review, Oct 2023
- 96 Points - Jeni Port, Wine Pilot, Sep 2023
- 96 Points - Christina Pickard, Wine Enthusiast, Jul 2024

This wine truly stands out on both the national and international stages.

Expression of Interest
Although Luminosa Chardonnay 2022 has already sold out, we invite you to stay connected and be the first to know when the next vintage becomes available. Fill in our Expression of Interest Form to ensure you don’t miss out on the 2023 vintage.

Join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement and the continued success of Stella Bella wines.

Time Posted: 19/06/2024 at 11:00 AM Permalink to Luminosa Chardonnay 2022: A Triumph on the World Stage Permalink
Stella Bella
 
1 November 2023 | Stella Bella

Suckfizzle Chardonnay Takes Home Triple Honours at the Margaret River Wine Show

 

Suckfizzle Chardonnay 2022 has once again asserted its excellence by securing an impressive trio of trophies at this year's Margaret River Wine Show

 Best Chardonnay 

 Best White Wine 

 Best Wine of Show 


Suckfizzle Chardonnay has only entered the Margaret River Wine Show twice, in 2018 and 2023.

THE RESULT?

Winner of Wine of the Show both times.

This single vineyard powerhouse is in limited supply, do not miss you chance to secure a legend.


Crafted with an unwavering commitment to quality, the Suckfizzle Chardonnay 2022 is grown in Augusta at the most southern vineyard in Margaret River. This vineyard is influenced by the prevailing Antarctic winds of the Southern Ocean and moderated by the warmth of the Blackwood River, creating a wine of unique power and flavour.

Luke Jolliffe, Chief Winemaker at Stella Bella, shared his excitement about the wine's success, stating, "We are thrilled to have won four trophies. Recognition such as this for our single vineyard Suckfizzle Chardonnay is a testament to the whole team. The passion in farming our land with care and precision, through to nurturing the wine from grape to bottle shows a very special and cohesive viticultural and winemaking team. We are incredibly fortunate. And how good is Margaret River Chardonnay?”

Stella Bella's dedication to producing top-quality wines is not limited to this exceptional Chardonnay. The iconic Luminosa Chardonnay 2022 has also been awarded four Trophies this season from the Royal Queensland and Royal Adelaide Wine Shows. In a region renowned for producing world-class Chardonnay these accolades are extraordinary.

 

Time Posted: 01/11/2023 at 3:46 PM Permalink to Suckfizzle Chardonnay Takes Home Triple Honours at the Margaret River Wine Show Permalink
Stella Bella
 
11 April 2023 | Stella Bella

Is Stella Bella Margaret River's best kept secret?

 

The wine industry is buzzing with excitement after The Real Review, one of Australia's leading wine publications, announced their highly anticipated Top Wineries of Australia list for 2023. Making waves on this year's list is Stella Bella, we have achieved the incredible feat of being named as one of the Top 10 Wineries in Australia. Coming in at number 8 and being the highest rated Margaret River winery is an amazing achievement.

This prestigious recognition follows closely on the heels of our impressive showing in The Real Review's Wine Classification of Australia, where three of our exceptional wines were awarded a place within the classification, including the coveted top level Three Merit classification for the Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon, placing it within the top 0.5% of wines in Australia.

For years, we have been quietly producing some of the best wines in Australia, and this latest recognition is a testament to our unwavering dedication to producing exceptional quality wines. Chief Winemaker, Luke Jolliffe, expressed his pride in the team, stating, "We are absolutely thrilled to be named as one of the Top 10 Wineries in Australia. This is a testament to the passion and dedication of our viticultural and winemaking teams, who work tirelessly to produce the best quality wines possible."

This is a shining example of the quality of wines produced in the Margaret River region, and highlights the important role that smaller wineries play in the Australian wine industry. This award underscores our commitment to showcasing the very best of Australian wine.

But don't just take our word for it - visit Stella Bella and experience the magic for yourself. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality, our wines are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Stella Bella is truly Margaret River's best kept secret, but not for long. Sample southern Margaret River's finest wines for yourself.

Time Posted: 11/04/2023 at 10:18 AM Permalink to Is Stella Bella Margaret River's best kept secret? Permalink
Stella Bella
 
21 March 2023 | Stella Bella

The making of an icon...

Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon truly stands out amongst the best Cabernets in Australia. An iconic wine that has gained worldwide recognition for its quality, unique flavours, and distinctive character. It has been placed within the top 0.5% of wines in The Real Review's Wine Classification of Australia, solidifying its status as a truly exceptional wine.

But what makes Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon so special? It all starts with the location. The grapes are grown in Southern Margaret River, in the Boodjidup valley, an iconic zone that produces some of the best wines in the region. Our Luminosa vineyard has a meso-climate perfectly suited to enhancing vine balance and producing exceptional fruit. Excellent top soils and free draining sub-soils allow for dry growing Cabernet to moderate vigour.

Furthermore, Luminosa vineyard is situated at the head of the Boodjidup Valley, slightly elevated and exposed to the predominant south westerly winds that bring in the influence of the sea air. This maritime influence, coupled with the region's cooler climate, is perfect for flavour development.

We farm our Luminosa Vineyard with an attention to detail unlike no other to embraces the pristine natural environment. The winemakers and viticulturists adopt a hands-on farming, organic principles approach, which results in wines that are distinctively Southern Margaret River and uniquely Luminosa. 

In the winery Luminosa wines are wild-fermented, and have no adds, resulting in fruit purity, elegance, and complexity. Each vintage of Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon is a reflection of the land, the climate, and the winemaker's passion for producing the finest wine possible. This is one of the most remarkable aspects about Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon, its ability to reflect the character of each vintage.

In conclusion, Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that embodies the very best of Southern Margaret River. It is an iconic wine that has gained worldwide recognition for its quality and unique character. At Luminosa, we embrace the natural environment and utilise organic principles to produce wines that are truly exceptional. So, if you are looking for a wine that proudly sits amongst the best Cabernets in Australia, look no further.

Recent Awards and Reviews:

3 Merit Wine – The Real Review’s Wine Classification of Australia

  • 3 Merit Wines represent iconic wines of the country, wines of true provenance and exemplary track record. Fewer than 0.5% of wines produced achieve this tier.

Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

  • 99 Points - Stuart Knox - The Real Review, March 2022
  • 97 Points - Erin Larkin - Halliday Wine Companion 2023
  • 96 Points - Gary Walsh - The Wine front, February 2022
  • GOLD Medal - Perth Royal Wine Awards 2021
  • GOLD Medal - Royal Adelaide Wine Show 2021

2018 Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon

  • Wine of the Year - 2021 WA Good Food Guide Awards
  • GOLD Medal- 2020 Decanter World Wine Awards
  • GOLD Medal- 2020 Royal Adelaide Wine Show
  • GOLD Medal- 2020 Perth Royal Wine Awards
  • GOLD Medal- 2019 National Wine Show of Australia
  • 98 Points  - Ray Jordan, The West Australian, Nov 2021
  • 97 Points  - Erin Larkin, Halliday Wine Companion 2022
  • 97 Points  - Stuart Knox, The Real Review, Oct 2021

2017 Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon

  • GOLD Medal- 2020 Royal Adelaide Wine Show
  • GOLD Medal- 2019 National Wine Show of Australia
  • 97 Points  - Huon Hooke, The Real Review - March 2020
  • 96 Points  - Ralph Kyte-Powell, The Real Review - May 2020
  • 95+ Points  - Gary Walsh, The Wine Front - April 2020
  • 95 Points  - Halliday Wine Companion 2021
  • 91 Points  - Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate - Jan 2020

2016 Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon

  • PLATINUM Medal +97 Points - 2018 Decanter World Wine Awards
  • DOUBLE GOLD Medal- 2019 Six Nations Wine Challenge
  • 96 Points  - Huon Hooke, The Real Review
Time Posted: 21/03/2023 at 1:08 PM Permalink to The making of an icon... Permalink
Stella Bella
 
25 November 2022 | Stella Bella

Luminosa shows its world-class credentials.

A truly world class wine... Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon has officially been recognised in the top 0.5% of wines produced within Australia in the Real Review's Wine Classification of Australia.

Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon has been awarded a 3 Merit Classification, placing it within the top 0.5% of wines within Australia. This comes on the back of its recent 2019 vintage being awarded 99 Points by Stuart Knox from The Real Review team.

The team at The Real Review have established a Wine Classification system to judge the quality of Australian wines. The Classification comprises the greatest wines of Australia with an outstanding track record over a decade or longer. Every wine must have demonstrated their quality in blind tastings over a period of at least a decade to have earned their place.

There are three tiers; 3 Merit, 2 Merit and 1 Merit wines with 3 Merit being the highest Classification. 3 Merit wines are iconic wines of Australia, the crème de a crème, wines of true provenance and exemplary track record. Fewer than 0.5% of wines produced achieve this tier. Most of these wines have received gold ribbons for recent vintages. Top vintages will score 98 points or more.

This has placed Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon in rarified air, now able to comfortably sit alongside the likes of Wynns John Riddoch, Cullen Diana Madeline, Mount Mary Quintet, Moss Wood, Yarra Yering Dry Red No 1 and Penfolds Bin 707.

We had two other wines that also made the Classification list:

Luminosa Chardonnay has been rated a 2 Merit Wine.
2 Merit Wines achieve gold and high silver ribbons in recent vintages, with top vintages achieving 96 points or more.

Suckfizzle Cabernet Sauvignon has been rated a 1 Merit Wine.
A 1 Merit Wine reliably achieved gold and silver ribbons in recent vintages, with top vintages achieving 95 points or more.

To have three wines within The Real Review Wine Classification truly highlights the passion and dedication to excellence from our viticultural and winemaking teams over a long period of time.

Time Posted: 25/11/2022 at 12:21 PM Permalink to Luminosa shows its world-class credentials. Permalink
Stella Bella
 
4 August 2022 | Stella Bella

Australia's Best Chardonnay

Stella Bella Wines cemented its place amongst Australia’s greatest chardonnay producers at this year's Halliday Wine Companion Awards after being awarded Australia’s Best Chardonnay for its 2020 Luminosa Chardonnay. Margaret River has a long-standing reputation for internationally acclaimed chardonnays and Luminosa, a single vineyard wine from Southern Margaret River is no exception, joining the elite with its pristine balance of fruit, power and elegance.

Fast becoming a powerhouse for Chardonnays with winemaker Luke Jolliffe at the helm, Stella Bella also received exceptional ratings for its Stella Bella and Suckfizzle Chardonnay, both also receiving top points 5 red stars.( other inclusions or changes here)

Every year, James Halliday and his tasting panel pinpoint the best Australian wines, winemakers and wineries with the winners announced at the wine industry’s night of nights, the Halliday Wine Companion Awards.

On receiving the award, Chief Winemaker Luke Jolliffe commented “we are exceptionally proud of this wine, and for the quality and style to be recognised by James and the Halliday team, it’s truly incredible. We make this wine from a single vineyard in the Boodjudup Valley within Southern Margaret River, we are very fortunate to have such a magnificent vineyard which can produce high quality fruit.

“The wine is a testament to the entire Stella Bella team. This level of quality is what we aspire to create. That is, make wines from single sites that are unique with unquestionable quality that will evolve over time and in your glass.”

This is the third time that Stella Bella has been awarded a Varietal Winner in the Halliday Wine Companion Awards after their Suckfizzle Sauvignon Blanc Semillon was awarded back-to-back Best Semillon Sauvignon Blend Awards at the 2019 and 2020 Halliday Wine Companion Awards.

Stella Bella has quietly garnered significant plaudits in recent years with Chief Winemaker Luke Jolliffe being a finalist in the 2020 Gourmet Traveller Wine Winemaker of the Year awards and Stella Bella being shortlisted for the Best Value Winery in the 2022 Halliday Wine Companion Awards.

Luminosa Chardonnay has built an impressive collection of rave reviews from some of the most esteemed wine critics throughout Australia over the last few years, adding to its iconic status.

2021 (pre-release)

  • 97 Points - Erin Larkin - Wine Advocate, July 2022

2020

  • Best Chardonnay in Australia - Halliday Wine Companion Awards 2023
  • 98 Points - James Halliday, Nov 2021
  • Halliday's Top 100 Wines of 2022
  • Gold Medal - Perth Royal Wine Awards 2021

2019

  • Platinum Medal + 97 Points - Decanter World Wine Awards 2020
  • 97 Points - Erin Larkin - Halliday Wine Companion 2022
  • Gold Medal - Perth Royal Wine Awards 2020
  • Gold Medal - Royal Adelaide Wine Show 2020

2018

  • 96 Points - James Halliday - Halliday Wine Companion 2021
  • 95+ Points - Gary Walsh - The Wine Front, Oct 2019

2017

  • 97 Points - James Halliday - Halliday Wine Companion 2020
  • Trophy for Best Single Vineyard White Wine - National Wine Show of Australia 2018
  • Gold Medal - National Wine Show of Australia 2018
  • Gold Medal - Wine Show of Western Australia 2018
Time Posted: 04/08/2022 at 4:11 PM Permalink to Australia's Best Chardonnay Permalink
Stella Bella
 
4 June 2022 | Stella Bella

Stella Bella in the Top 20 Wineries in Australia

 

We are humbled and incredibly excited to be rated inside the Top 20 Wineries in Australia. Every year The Real Review publishes its Top Wineries of Australia list, these are the crème de la crème of Australian wineries, with rankings determined solely by the scores gained in their tastings.

The Real Review team review over 10,000 wines annually, so the competition is intense. There are over 2,150 wineries vying to be on the list and to see six Margaret River wineries inside the Top 52 this year is testament to the outstanding quality of wine produced in our beautiful region.

Coming in at number 19 this year places Stella Bella inside the top 1%, such an amazing result and great recognition of the dedication and passion of our Viticultural and Winemaking teams.

From our humble beginnings in 1996 with the creation of Suckfizzle single vineyard wines, Stella Bella is now rated amongst the best wineries in Australia, setting the benchmark for producing Southern Margaret River wines.

GOLD AWARDS

SILVER AWARDS

  • Stella Bella Shiraz 2020 - 93 Points
  • Stella Bella Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 - 93 Points
  • Stella Bella Cabernet Merlot 2019 - 92 Points
  • Suckfizzle Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2020 - 92 Points
  • Stella Bella Chardonnay 2019 - 93 Points

 

Time Posted: 04/06/2022 at 12:37 PM Permalink to Stella Bella in the Top 20 Wineries in Australia Permalink
Stella Bella
 
20 November 2021 | Stella Bella

Halliday Top 100 Wines 2021

Such incredible recognition of the passion and hard work that goes into creating our wines, to have two wines in this year's Halliday's Top 100 Wines. Each year, James Halliday selects his Top 100 wines, showcasing a range of varieties and price points, it’s an invaluable guide to some of Australia's finest wines.

2020 Luminosa Chardonnay - 98 Points
Top Whites over $30
"Wild fermented in French barriques; neither fined nor filtered. A very complex wine of immediate power, with a deliberately funky bouquet, then changing tack with the glorious purity and focus of the palate, white peach, grapefruit and cashew/almond combining in a single stream of joy."

2019 Stella Bella Cabernet Merlot - 95 Points
Top Reds under $40
"Cabernet sauvignon is the driver, percentages irrelevant; it's blackcurrant rather than cassis per se, but the tannins that might have bullied the merlot are in fact relaxed and accommodating. A budget-priced entry into the Margaret River castle of this blend, helped by the excellent vintage."

Time Posted: 20/11/2021 at 4:36 PM Permalink to Halliday Top 100 Wines 2021 Permalink