Cape Mentelle Heritage Chardonnay 2023

The vineyards supplying the fruit for this stunning Margaret River Chardonnay are the Crossroads and Chapman Brook vineyards, located in the south of the region. This really is a bit special and sits comfortably with the top offerings from here. Or indeed, anywhere in Australia. 100% Gin Gin clone, after a wild ferment, the final wine was a barrel selection following ten months maturation in French oak, 43% of which was new. A lemon straw hue, there is serious intensity here with notes of lemon curd, oyster shell, peaches, tropical characters, florals, some flint and a minerally backing. The oak is so well integrated that it is merely one more aspect of this brilliant Chardy and part of a seamless overall impression. There is a juicy palate, where the flavours simply explode into life, while complex, concentrated, offering serious length and endless flavours. Love it. A wine which will provide enormous pleasure for the next ten to twelve years.