Cape Mentelle 2007
It is no secret that I am one of the remaining few who still enjoys a glass of Cloudy Bay, the “iconic”, yet some say over-priced, fire-starter of the Kiwi Sauvignon Blanc phenomenon, even though they “sold out” to LVMH and revered founder, David Hohnen, left in 2003.
Strange then that I have never tried any of the wines of Hohnen’s other famous former enterprise, Cape Mentelle, from Australia’s Margaret River.
Being a blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc, as opposed to the pure SB of Cloudy Bay adds a softness to the wine. Less of the gooseberry and rhubarb of Cloudy Bay and just a touch of honey and pear thrown into the mix. Less acidic and therefore perhaps suited to a range of foods.
I really like it but like Cloudy Bay, it is not so cheap. I got this from Majestic at £11.99.
August 15th, 2008 at 10:08 am
Alastair,
I’m surprised you haven’t tasted the Cape Mentelle wines before. Their Cabernet / Merlot is one of WA’s most famous – and a very reliable club with which to beat diehard claret fans who won’t drink Aussie wine.
cheers
Ben
August 15th, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Yeah I do have a bit of a blind spot for Aussie wines which is unfair, because almost every one I have tried has been pretty darn good.
Must try harder, must try harder, must try harder, must t…….
August 17th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
You’ve only got one liver, so your excused. Cape Mentelle do make a cheaper SSB blend, called the Georgiana, which is about half the price and occasionally of similar quality.