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Brilliant concentration of depth and aroma. A full bodied Chardonnay. Not crisp or mineral, this wine is a barrage of fruit flavour and toast. The body of this wine does not however overshadow the complexity, which is equally elaborate.
Whilst a great vintage for white in Margaret River, watch out for the '06 which by accounts of other Margaret River chardonnays, may be superior yet. The 06 Cape Mentelle was better that the '05. And the Cape Mentelle vineyards is situated close to Leeuwin Estate, in the southern part of Margaret River.
Why you want this wine: This is an exceedingly good example of the LEAS Chardonnay - whilst LEAS Chardonnay is itself generally considered the finest chardonnay in Australia. And this one is a very good vintage. Whilst there may be reluctance considering the next vintage may still be better yet, the '05 has been discounted in Woolworths from $97 to approx $75, making it good value. It might be discounted elsewhere also, to make way for the new release.
The budget option: Buy the '06 Cape Mentelle or the '05 Voyager Estate - CM is better to drink now, the Voyager to cellar.
The verdict: This blog tried the '06 Cape Mentelle and '05 LEAS side by side, and the LEAS was clearly superior. Is it worth twice to thrice the price? that's a judgement for you to make, based of the value you put on perfection (or nearer thereof).
We also tried the '06 CM v '05 Voyager together. The Voyager, being highly acidic, ought not be drunk now and is better suited to long term cellaring.
Scores:
2005 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay - 97/100
2006 Cape Mentelle Chardonnay - 95/100
2005 Voyager Estate Chardonnay - 95+/100
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