Pleasing to see more suitable white varieties being produced in McLaren Vale; Vermentino, Fiano, even Chenin Blanc have shown some promise. Grapes that can retain natural acidity in warmer climates. I still think there’s a place for Roussanne, Viognier and Chardonnay but they have to be sourced from the right sites and vinified very carefully.
This wine is of the light, crisp and racy persuasion. It’s all about lemons, lemon zest, seashells and sea spray. Maybe some florals too. It hints at pear but decides not to be that rambunctious. Curiously, after about an hour of being opened it displayed a slight caramel note. Anyway, it’s going to be a crowd pleaser. Line, length and refreshment without overtaxing the cerebral cortex. I’d like to see a little more texture (not that it’s completely lacking) but that’s an issue I have with many Australian Vermentinos. I drank it by the bay with a friend and a dozen Sydney Rock oysters. A pretty decent context to make the most out of it I suspect. Good – Very Good
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 12.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $24
Tasted: August 2012