Cape Mentelle Chardonnay 2022

Margaret River Excellence

Wild Ferment | French Oak | Premium Chardonnay

Tasting Notes

Brilliant pale lemon. The aromatics unfold with bright lemon zest and white stonefruit florals following through with complex mineral layers of sea spray and hints of washed stone. The palate is fresh and vibrant with a bright minerality and lovely biscuity texture. Succulent and salivating, opening up to frangipani, honeysuckle and lemon pie. Medium bodied with a crystalline acidity and beautiful fruit purity, finishing with poise and clarity.

A benchmark Margaret River Chardonnay — layered, precise, and built to reward patience in the cellar for 10–15 years.

The Vineyard

Grown across two southern vineyards approximately 15 minutes south of the Margaret River township, this Chardonnay draws on sites that differ markedly in aspect, soil profile, temperature extremes, and rainfall. Rather than blending these differences away, Cape Mentelle embraces them — the variation in fruit profile is precisely what gives this wine its complexity and sense of place.

The Process

Chardonnay is hand-picked using a one plot, one batch approach before whole bunch pressing. The juice is transferred to barrel with all solids intact for wild fermentation, preserving the wine's natural texture and character. French oak selection is carefully considered to enhance the individual personality of each plot, with 25% new barriques ensuring structure without dominating the fruit.

About Cape Mentelle

One of Margaret River's founding estates, Cape Mentelle has shaped the identity of the region since 1970. Guided by a philosophy of minimal intervention and site expression, they produce wines that consistently appear on the best restaurant lists in Australia and New Zealand — wines with the kind of depth and longevity that reward those who seek them out.

Perfect with roasted chicken with lemon and herbs, pan-seared scallops, or a classic lobster thermidor. The crystalline acidity and biscuity texture make it equally at home alongside creamy pasta or a fine soft cheese board.