2019 Cape Mentelle Wallcliffe Sauvignon Blanc Semillon, Margaret River

Cape Mentelle Wallcliffe Sauvignon Blanc Semillon from Margaret River is a bright, fresh, and refined white wine that perfectly reflects the quality and elegance of one of Australia’s premier wine regions. Margaret River, with its maritime climate, offers the perfect growing conditions for Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, two varietals that thrive in this environment, producing wines with both intensity and balance. Cape Mentelle, one of the founding wineries of Margaret River, has been crafting exceptional wines since 1970, and this Sauvignon Blanc Semillon blend is a testament to their expertise and commitment to quality.

The Wallcliffe Sauvignon Blanc Semillon is a blend of two of the region’s flagship white varietals. The Sauvignon Blanc provides vibrant citrus and tropical fruit character, while the Semillon adds texture, body, and a touch of herbaceousness, creating a harmonious wine with great complexity. The grapes are hand-picked from the Wallcliffe Vineyard, where the cool sea breezes and rich soils allow the fruit to ripen slowly, developing bright acidity and the crisp, fresh flavors that make this blend so appealing. The wine undergoes fermentation in a combination of stainless steel and oak, which adds subtle depth and complexity while preserving the fresh fruit profile.

In the glass, Cape Mentelle Wallcliffe Sauvignon Blanc Semillon has a pale straw color with green hues, reflecting its freshness and youth. The nose is aromatic and vibrant, with lively notes of citrus, including lemon, lime, and grapefruit, alongside tropical fruit aromas of passionfruit and guava. There’s a subtle herbaceous quality, characteristic of Sauvignon Blanc, along with hints of fresh grass and minerality that add depth and complexity to the bouquet.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with crisp acidity that provides structure and balance. The citrus and tropical fruit flavors are bright and refreshing, with lemon, lime, and passionfruit leading the way. The Semillon adds a roundness to the mouthfeel, with flavors of green apple and a touch of melon. The oak influence is subtle, adding complexity and a slight creaminess without overpowering the fresh fruit character. The finish is clean, long, and refreshing, with lingering citrus and a slight mineral note.

Cape Mentelle Wallcliffe Sauvignon Blanc Semillon is a versatile and food-friendly wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Its bright acidity and fresh fruit flavors make it an excellent match for seafood, particularly oysters, prawns, or grilled fish. It also pairs wonderfully with light salads, goat cheese, or dishes like roasted chicken, sushi, or Thai cuisine. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a meal, this wine is perfect for those who appreciate a crisp, refreshing white with elegance and depth.