It was interesting to revisit the Fraser Gallop wines since my review last year. Margaret River has had some cracker vintages recently, the standout being 2018. Not surprisingly, my pick then was the 2018 Parterre chardonnay.
This is a quality estate with excellent viticultural sites in the heart of Wilyabrup. Important to note here is that the vines are dry grown, which means that irrigation is not relied upon.
From a purist’s perspective the wines therefore are, I believe, more of a true reflection of the site’s terroir. The viticultural team is headed by Mike Bolas. Mike has extensive experience worldwide – Geisenheim Germany, Bordeaux as well as in the Swan Valley, Great Southern and more recently in Margaret River.
In the well-equipped cellar, vinification is carefully
nurtured by winemaker Ellen Tritt under the watchful eye of chief winemaker Clive Otto. Clive’s reputation is second to none in the region, having been responsible for many internationally acclaimed wines over the years.
The Wines
2021 Estate Semillon Sauvignon Blanc
Lifted aromas of white flowers, hints of tropical and passionfruit. Partial barrel fermentation adds a note of intrigue to this delightful wine. Very easy to gulp on a sunny spring day. (12%, $24)
2019 Parterre Chardonnay
Naturally fermented with nine months barrel maturation. Not as intense as the 2018 but, again, expertly crafted. Seamless balance of fruitiness, acidity (freshness) and tannins (oak). Not high in alcohol (12.5%), it caresses the palate without being forceful. Whilst very enjoyable and drinkable right now, it will shine brightly in a year
or two. ($50)
2019 Estate Cabernet Merlot
Lovely berry fruit aromas give way to the fresh and pleasing taste of blackcurrants with hints of chocolate and olive. Nicely balanced and a clean finish. Eminently approachable now. Keep it a few years if you like. It is, like its sibling SSB, a real crowd pleaser. (13.5%, $28)
2018 Parterre Cabernet Sauvignon
Intense deep aromas of cassis, graphite and spice. Multilayered and concentrated. Integrated, complex and graceful. Lovely depth of flavour. Awarded a gold medal in the Decanter International Wine Awards A wonderful example of what has made Margaret River standout in the international wine scene. My pick of the bunch (14% alcohol, $50)
Win…
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