Under the auspices of winemaker Bruce Dukes, Domaine Naturaliste has produced the Sauvage Sauvignon Blanc. While the French word for ‘wild’ may seem an unfitting name for such a classic wine varietal, the bold perfume, impressive texture and depth, and incredible energy of this expression make it ‘sauvage’ indeed.
Berries are fermented and matured in French oak. On the nose, you will smell red currant, passionfruit, and orange blossom, alongside subtle clove. The palate is rich and creamy, with lemon zest and flesh, and a long finish. Best enjoyed in its younger years.
The naked power of the sauvignon blanc that fuels this wine is exceptional. Its fiercely unsweetened lemon fruit and zest ensure it will outlive the patience of many who buy it expecting a developed wine. The fact it has swept past three vintages will only serve to increase their surprise.
96 points, Wine Companion (September 2019)
Margaret River
Located three hours south of Perth, Margaret River is Western Australia’s most prestigious wine-growing region. Serious vineyard development began only in the late 1960’s following the publication of a report by John Gladstones in 1965 stating that the area had a similar climate to Pomerol or St Emilion, with low frost risk, plenty of sunshine and equable temperatures within the growing season promoting even ripening. Margaret River’s climate is warm and maritime, with some cooling influence provided by southeast trade winds. The soils derive from granitic and a gneissic rock over which laterite has formed. The region can be divided in three sub-regions: the cooler south between Yallingup and Karridale with predominantly lateritic gravelly loamy sands and sandy loams; the warm and sunnier Willyabrup in the centre with predominantly gravelly loams, but some gritty sandy loams and granitic gravels; and Margaret River in the north with similar soils, but slightly cooler temperatures. This is entirely consistent with style; the wines from Willyabrup being more generous than the highly structured wines of the north and the elegant styles of the south. Margaret River is best known for high quality Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc Semillon blends and top notch Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux blends. Over the years, the region has established an astonishing reputation illustrating a consistency in quality and a strongly focused winemaking culture.
