Vermentino has a future in Australia, no doubt – but I do wonder if we sometimes take too safe a route with the variety. This version from Fox Creek marks that problematic well.
Fresh and floral with lemon and orange citrus flavours providing heaps of refreshment whilst a clean acid line keeps things crisp and dry on the finish. As a ‘classic dry white’ it works well, and there is also adequate varietal definition. What holds me back from a higher rating is the lack of complexity and interest. You don’t want to smother those lovely flowers in lees nor lose the grape’s inherent freshness through over-use of oak but I can’t help but feel that some more winemaking artifice would really help out here. Less isn’t always more in my books. Still, it does the job. Average – Good
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 11.9%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $23
Tasted: May 2012