Leaning towards the crisper Italian style of Pinot Grigio the Cape Schanck is a fresher example of Victorian winemaking. Aromas of candied citrus and roasted hazelnuts the palate is generous and laden with pear and zest with a textural almond meal or marzipan notes. With the crisp acidity to keep the fruit in check the result is well balanced with a lingering finish.
James Halliday: 91 (2013) While made in the grigio style, the colour would suggest there was some skin contact used, and the vibrant, juicy fruits definitely point to some clever winemaking. The style spectrum guide on the back label is firmly in the pinot grigio end of the spectrum, and I suppose the crisp acidity helps there, but I think this is a case of hiding a very nice light under a bushel.
FROM THE WINERY:
When Kevin returned from Europe — he was determined to begin to create wines, which were reflective of the spectrum of styles of Pinot G. The first wines he made were Cape Schanck. Today, Cape Schanck is a cool climate Pinot Grigio with crisp, fresh pear and spicy notes. The wine is reflective of the cool maritime influence of the Mornington Peninsula. The maritime influence provides relatively high summer humidity, vine stress is low, sunshine hours are abundant, rainfall is plentiful during winter and spring. The coincidence of late ripening and a prolonged gentle autumn result in fully ripe grapes with outstanding fruit flavours and high natural acidity.
