Cape Mentelle Margaret River Chardonnay 2018

From a fab vintage comes a fab, young chardonnay. Sourced from two vineyards from the cooler southern parts of the region, this chardonnay combines Margaret River ‘s predominant Gingin (aka Gin Gin) chardonnay clone – the luscious, sunny, sea breezy one – with two Burgundy chardonnay clones. Normally, this would not be worthy of special comment, but in this instance the three clones collude to produce a particularly complex result.

The scent is pure honeysuckle, lantana, mango skin, yellow peach and fig. The palate combines a tropical influence of mango, mandarin skin and nectarine with a nutty, nougat overlay. Then, in comes the Burgundian oak, influencing the wine with a savoury, almost Vegemite-y character to close. Juicy, brisk acidity lends its voice to the whole tasting experience.

This is a chardonnay that combines a complex number of influences to produce a complex result. You can taste it. Ask no more.