Winemaker Caroline Mooney builds a lot of textural interest into the Bird on a Wire wines. They seem to be as much about feel as flavour; which isn’t to say they are in any way shy.
This Marsanne is voluptuously savoury. It eschews the more vulgar transparency of detailed primary fruits in favour of something more vinous and satisfying. Honey, nuts, bitter herbs and spiced orange present themselves amidst a dense amalgam of pear and citrus. Pleasingly oily through the midpalate before shapely phenolic grip asserts itself and pulls the wine together. Given the weight that precedes it, the finish is surprisingly mineral laden and fresh. Captivating stuff and it would be fascinating to follow its development over the next five to ten years. Excellent
Region: Yarra Valley
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $35
Tasted: December 2011