Fruit is sourced from Cape Mentelle’s own Estate and Chapman Brook Vineyards as well as selected contract vineyards, with most being from the cooler southern half of the region.
Various canopy management methods are used, with the objective being to maximise sunlight into the fruiting zone, thereby enhancing fruit flavour development. The soils of these vineyards are geologically ancient, free draining sandy loams with a high percentage of lateritic gravel.
2007 was one of the earliest recorded vintages in Margaret River. Crop levels were down on expectations by up to 25% for both semillon and sauvignon blanc. The season was marked by a warm dry growing season and produced full flavoured, concentrated white wines with great aromatic intensity and lively fresh palates.
Cape Mentelle takes a minimal approach towards this classic Margaret River blend of sauvignon blanc and semillon. The aim is to preserve as much fruit intensity and regional character as possible, whilst providing a full flavoured distinctive white wine. The style accentuates the fresh fruit characters of both varieties with the added complexity and palate weight offered by a small portion of barrel fermentation.
