Cape Barren Estate:
Cape Barren was founded in 1999 by Peter Matthews, who worked tirelessly to create wines of distinction from some of the oldest vineyards in McLaren Vale. Peter sold the business in late 2009 to Rob Dundon and Tom Adams, who together have amassed in excess of 50 years experience in winemaking, viticulture and international sales.
Rob Dundon, Winemaker, has been making wine for almost 35 years, including vintages in Germany. He was originally Senior Red Winemaker for Thomas Hardy Wines based in McLaren Vale, then created his own company Beresford Wines, which ultimately included a second brand Step Rd. Rob's wines over the years have won almost 2,000 medals and 200 trophies at Wine Shows. He spent many years as the International Sales Manager for Step Rd, so knows the intricacies involved in establishing export markets.
Tom Adams, Viticulturist, experience in the Wine Industry spans 26 years. His background and training is in viticulture, and he managed one of the most iconic and respected vineyards in Australia, the famous Metala Vineyards of around 800 acres. He developed the Brothers in Arms portfolio and established this as a well respected and formidable wine brand across the world. His ability to set up export markets and promote the wines, is highly regarded in the Industry. In 2003 he won the prestigious Australian Wine and Brandy Export Wine of the Year award. Tom pioneered significant water conservation techniques, which have gone on to be adopted by several Government departments across Australia.
Cape Barren Geese: Towards the end of each summer, we are greeted in our vineyards by the arrival of magnificent Cape Barren Geese. These are amongst the rarest of the world's geese, and are native to Australia. The birds are named after Cape Barren Island where the birds were first sighted centuries ago. Our friendly colony lives on Kangaroo Island to the south of McLaren Vale, and they fly into our vineyards searching for grain and grape seeds after harvest.
Cape Barren Vineyards:
Cape Barren wines are produced from vineyards particularly hand selected for their exceptional quality and consistency. Our reds are produced from the world renowned McLaren Vale region, from vines older than45 years.
These seriously old vines produce wines of supreme concentration and complexity not seen in younger vines. It is this history on which our future lies.
With its picturesque and undulating terrain, and maritime climate, McLaren Vale is one of the finest regions in the world for grape-growing — especially for Shiraz and Grenache. The long warm summers are cooled by afternoon sea breezes, resulting in very mild nights, and controlled ripening and flavor development. The whites are sourced from Adelaide Hills vineyards grown above 400m from sea level.
Here the temperatures drop dramatically, especially at night, and the soils can be demanding and unforgiving, leading to smaller, more intensely flavored fruit.
The region is a veritable maze of valleys and glens, with a criss-cross of slopes which offer every conceivable aspect and micro-climate variation. This not only makes the region both charming and strikingly beautiful — but also challenging.
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Bouchard Pere & Fils Meursault Les Clous is made from 100 percent Chardonnay.
Intense bouquet of fruit and flowers combined with a delicate mineral hint. Rich and subtle wine with good crisp, which makes it very balanced. Good ageing potential.
Pair with fish dishes in sauce.
Review:
This elegant Meursault reminds me very much of the best wines from this appellation from the 1970s and 80s. Only medium-bodied, with delicate pear, apple and lemon aromas. Long, silky and filigree finish. What’s the secret to its 1er Cru quality? Apart from very good winemaking, it’s a high altitude site that has benefited from climate change. Drink or hold.
-James Suckling 94 Points
Gold, 92 points, LA Invitational
Gold, 91 points, Critics Challenge International Wine & Spirits Competition
Gold, Virginia Governor's Cup
Gold, Monticello Cup Wine Competition
Tasting notes:
Our 2017 Blanc de Blanc is made with 100% estate-grown Chardonnay. Aged for a minimum of 36 months on lees. Bright green apple and fresh citrus notes with layers of brioche and yeast complexity. An excellent balance of acidity, creamy mousse, and textures that persist with a long and elegant finish.
Pair with any special occasion. Make a Tuesday dinner special. Enjoy with mild cheeses, scallops, or serve as an aperitif.