Cape Mentelle Chardonnay 2023

The fruit for this fine Margaret River Chardy comes from two very different vineyards south of the Margaret River township, using the famous Gin Gin clone. Wild fermentation takes place in French oak, around a third of which was new. The colour is a pale pineapple/lemon and there is already some complexity evident, which is pleasing. The nose offers notes of stone fruits, nuts, peaches, hazelnuts, orange rind, a touch of grapefruit and hints of mango. A juicy palate with fine, bright acidity, endless flavour and very good length. There is room to improve and it should do so while providing pleasure over the next half a dozen years.