2022 Cape Mentelle Chardonnay, Margaret River

2020 was a ripe vintage, and it leads to this ripe, voluminous, almost tropical chardonnay. Rich and full bodied, glossy (as is the style of the CM chardonnay) and streamlined. A big wine, a smart wine. Opulent. 

93 points Erin Larkin winecompanion.com.au March 2023

Cape Mentelle Chardonnay is a refined and layered expression of Margaret River’s classic cool-climate style, combining vibrant fruit purity with elegant oak handling and subtle complexity. Cape Mentelle, founded in 1970 by the Hohnen brothers, is one of the pioneering estates of the region and played a key role in establishing Margaret River’s reputation for world-class Chardonnay. Drawing fruit from mature vineyard sites, the wine reflects both meticulous viticulture and a restrained, modern winemaking approach that highlights texture, freshness, and regional character.

The Chardonnay is sourced from the estate’s vineyards in the cooler southern subregions of Margaret River, where the maritime climate delivers warm days tempered by afternoon sea breezes from the Indian Ocean. This extended, gentle ripening builds flavour intensity while retaining natural acidity. The vines are grown on classic gravelly loam soils over clay, providing excellent drainage and minerality. Grapes are hand harvested and whole-bunch pressed, then fermented in French oak barriques (around 30–40 percent new) using a combination of cultured and wild yeasts. Lees stirring during maturation adds creaminess and texture, while partial malolactic fermentation is employed to build complexity while preserving freshness.

In the glass, Cape Mentelle Chardonnay is a pale straw with green highlights. Aromas of white peach, citrus blossom, grapefruit zest, and nectarine are layered with subtle notes of toasted hazelnut, brioche, and flint from the oak and lees contact. The palate is medium bodied and beautifully balanced, with juicy stone fruit and citrus flavours supported by vibrant acidity and a fine, mineral backbone. The finish is long and precise, showing both elegance and underlying power.

This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with grilled marron, seared scallops, roast chicken with lemon and herbs, creamy mushroom pasta, or soft cheeses like brie and triple cream. It can be enjoyed now for its energy and vibrancy or cellared for 6 to 10 years, during which it will develop richer, nutty and honeyed nuances.