Regional Spotlight: Margaret River Chardonnay
Post by Chuck Hayward | August 14th, 2010
Margaret River has a reputation as one of Australia's best chardonnay growing regions for a reason. Located on a small peninsula in the southwest corner of Western Australia, the cooling breezes coming off the Indian Ocean help maintain moderate temperatures and preserve necessary acidity. The proximity to water also limits the impact of droughts that plague other growing areas throughout the country.
- Map of Margaret River
A relatively new region when compared with the century-old vineyards of South Australia, the first plantings here occurred in the late 60s at Vasse Felix. Yet in less than 40 years, Margaret River has gained international prominence for producing world class chardonnay and cabernet whose styles bear a striking resemblance to those of Burgundy and Bordeaux, respectively. The region accounts for more than 20% of the nation’s premium wines, even though it only produces 3% of the grapes.
When it comes to chardonnay, Leeuwin Estate (2006 Art Series, $69.99) may be the most famous producer in the region, but there are many top quality wineries who have carved out a name for themselves over the years and at more affordable prices. These new arrivals showcase the recent trend towards chardonnay with more finesse and elegance. Interestingly, each of these well-known properties has recently hired new winemakers with incredible track records, poised to take these already renowned wineries to even greater heights.
So explore a few of the following wines to get a better understanding of the beauty of Margaret River:
2008 Cape Mentelle Chardonnay (Margaret River) $21.99
Rob Mann comes from Western Australia's most famous winemaking family but gained his fame as the head winemaker for Hardys in South Australia. He returns to his home state to take the reins of Cape Mentelle, founded by David Hohnen and Kevin Judd, who also set up Cloudy Bay at the same time.
2008 Hay Shed Hill Chardonnay (Margaret River) $18.99
Michael Kerrigan's background began as the winemaker at Howard Park but he is now the proud owner of Hay Shed Hill where he can now focus his efforts on a more intimate scale. He has a great understanding of Margaret River's varying microclimates which allows him to craft multidimensional wines.
2007 Vasse Felix Chardonnay (Margaret River) $15.99
Victoria Willcox is one of Margaret River's legendary winemakers. Passionate and knowledgeable, she throws her considerable energy into her work as well as her post-work activities. She is now in charge of Margaret River's oldest winery and is "stoked" to be a finalist for Qantas/Gourmet Traveller Winemaker of the Year.