Bruce and Jeanette Tomlinson established Lenton Brae Estate in 1982. It remains family owned and operated with son Edward the current winemaker.
The site of the vineyard was chosen after a chance conversation with Bill Pannell. Bill was the owner of Moss Wood winery and producing wines that were renowned throughout Australia and overseas. During a casual chat between the two men, Bill opined that the soils of one of the newly created properties were uniformly excellent and equal to those of the existing Moss Wood vineyard. Suitably impressed, Bruce decided to purchase the property immediately to the north of Moss Wood. The varieties selected for planting in 1982 were Chardonnay, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet
Sauvignon and Merlot. Pinot Noir was also originally planted but was removed in line with Bruce’s decision to focus Lenton Brae production on the red and white Bordeaux wine styles.
Genetically similar to Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc is popular in Alsace and in pockets of northern Italy and Germany producing confident medium bodied whites. Minimal intervention is practiced in the winery to highlight the inherent character and flavour profile. Wild fermentation in older, large format French oak and bottling without filtration are some of the techniques employed.
Lenton Brae is the only producer of Pinot Blanc in Margaret River. Cuttings were released from WA quarantine in 2011 and were propagated in house. The 0.5 hectare site was chosen for its cool, southerly aspect – perfect for this early ripening variety. Fermented in French Oak Hogsheads. Alcohol: 12.5%
Described by the winemaker Ed Tomlinson as a Sauv Blanc for grown ups, this vintage displays all the texture and charm that this unassuming varietal is known for. Aromatics of citrus blossom, green apple with a hint of spice lead to a mouth filling palate of depth and persistence.
92/100 Mike Bennie, The Wine Front “Pinot blanc! Something different from a Margaret River stalwart. It reveals itself as a mega fresh, summery style, with a little extra under the hood. Light and refreshing white wine of good interest and high drinkability. Green apple, squeeze of lime, faint blackcurrant, lick of herbs. Doubled down from bouquet to palate. Good line, good zest to close. Could drink all day. Might just”
