Every good restaurant – particularly those with an AGFG Chef Hat – has a dedicated Sommelier, or Beverage Manager taking care of a carefully curated wine list to accompany the menu.
Who better to ask what’s trending in the vino world right now than these knowledgeable wine buffs? Welcome to our ‘Wine of the Week’ series, where we highlight particular wines on the radar of restaurants around the country.
Long one of the great dining rooms in Western Australia, the lakeside Cape Lodge Restaurant on Caves Road in Yallingup offers classically prepared country fare showcasing the best Margaret River produce. Located on its own vineyard, Cape Lodge is like staying at a private country estate with all the trappings and facilities of a world-class boutique hotel.
Sommelier Sofia Giros recommends trying the Trait 2020 Chardonnay – the first Chardonnay released by Theo and Clare, the couple behind Trait Wines in Western Australia.
"Trait Wines is a story of perseverance, courage and determination, making beautiful small-batch single vineyard wines,” she says. "This is an elegant and honest wine with an incredible fruit concentration and a true expression of Margaret River. A promising new kid on the block!”
The ‘X’ on each wine bottle label is a family symbol related to Theo’s South African background – the family would mark their luggage on travels throughout Central Africa in the mid-20th Century and today the tradition continues with Trait Wines.
Pale gold in colour, with fleeting hints of green; this Chardonnay has floral and blossom aromas and a hint of honey, while a slight pithy quality on the finish provides pleasing texture and a moreish quality.
Subtle but well-judged oak provides a creamy finish and while still young at the moment, this is a wine to watch as it ages.
