These De Bortoli Vinoque reds are so vital and juicy. In fact, you can probably extend that to all of De Bort’s Yarra red wines. Very attractive indeed. This is their first Nebbiolo and if you spend any time with winemakers Sarah Fagan and Steve Webber you’ll see how excited they are about making the variety.
The first thing I find remarkable about this wine is how it can taste and smell of sodden earth yet be so juicy. Weird but remarkably pleasurable. It’s an extremely savoury, light bodied creature with some wilder characters in addition to cherry fruit and notes of aniseed and herbs. Tannic too, as a good Nebbiolo should be. A young wine though, so I expect the structure will become less rugged and more textured in the future. Rather special considering they haven’t released a Nebbiolo before. Can’t pick up any detrimental effects of a cool, wet vintage either. Exciting times ahead. 91+ Good – Very Good
Region: Yarra Valley
Alcohol: 13.0%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $25
Tasted: September 2012
Would seem like a great result for a first crack at the variety, especially given the vintage.
Yep, extremely impressive. Would happily buy this but suspect De Borts will make even better Nebbiolos in the future as they get more familiar with sites and fruit.
Exciting times. Am looking forward to trying this!
Lexi – We’re beginning to see some diverse and impressive Australian Nebbiolos being made. Different wines to the classy Pizzinis but fascinating expressions of the grape in their own right. Check out Fletcher Wines Nebbiolo too if you get a chance. But this Vinoque is certainly worth a go.
Cheers
J