2025 Domaine Naturaliste Discovery Sauvignon Blanc Semillon, Margaret River

Domaine Naturaliste Discovery Sauvignon Blanc Semillon from Margaret River captures everything that makes this region’s white blends so distinctive — vibrant fruit, textural depth and coastal freshness. Crafted by acclaimed winemaker Bruce Dukes, this wine sits in the Discovery range, which showcases the purity and balance of Margaret River fruit in an approachable, early-drinking style. Dukes, who studied at UC Davis and worked in California before returning home, is renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and minimal-intervention philosophy. His goal is to let the vineyards speak clearly — and this wine does just that.

The fruit is sourced from vineyards in the cool southern part of Margaret River, where the Indian Ocean breezes and gravelly loam soils help Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon ripen slowly, preserving bright aromatics and natural acidity. Each variety is harvested and fermented separately before blending. The Sauvignon Blanc brings lifted citrus and tropical notes, while the Semillon adds body, texture and a subtle waxy edge. A small portion of the blend is matured in seasoned French oak to enhance mouthfeel and complexity without masking freshness.

In the glass, it gleams pale straw with green reflections. The nose bursts with aromas of lime zest, white peach, gooseberry and passionfruit, layered with hints of lemongrass, sea spray and gentle oak spice. The palate is crisp and lively yet rounded, showing a beautiful interplay between zesty Sauvignon fruit and creamy Semillon texture. Flavours of citrus, guava and green apple lead into a refreshing finish with a touch of minerality that reflects the coastal terroir.

It’s a wonderfully versatile wine for food — perfect with grilled barramundi, fish tacos, Thai-style prawns, or goat cheese and rocket salad. It’s also an excellent match for roast chicken with lemon and herbs or seafood pasta. Best enjoyed young and vibrant within three years of vintage, though it can gain intriguing honeyed complexity with short-term cellaring.