If there is such a thing as a cult wine in Margaret River, then Hay Shed Hill's Peter Stanlake has chosen it as his favourite.

This one quite literally stands alone as a variety in the region and is only produced by a couple of other labels in Australia. We refer to the quite delicious Cape Mentelle Zinfandel.

Here is a massively concentrated red of huge dimensions which sells out mighty rapidly to those in the know. Peter isn't the only Margaret River winemaker who gets in fast for an annual stash - which is a good sign to order early!

"t is a really different, big wine and is very well made at Cape Mentelle," said Peter. "The Zin. has always been a favourite and I would recommend it for some great alternative red flavours."

The wine is usually a deeply extracted red/violet colour, and offers up great briary fruit on both the nose and palate. There is a bold, but not too weighty palate impression with just the right amount of oak. Medium term cellaring will add velvet and deeper mellowness to the wine.

Zinfandel is a staple in California, for it is there that the wine first gained prominence. Indeed it is as common as Cab. Sav. in the Sonoma Valley. However, not wishing to shame our American cousins, this wild, berryish CM wine leaves most of California in its wake and is proof that here is yet another grape which loves Margaret River.

If you are looking for a change from the classic red varietals, try this rare Zin. You'll soon want more!

Other Winemaker's Choices.
Eddi Price - from Amberly Estate
Clive Otto - from Vasse Felix
Stuart Pym - from Voyager Estate
John Durham - from Cape Mentelle