Ben Haines loves his ‘white Rhone’ varieties and I love him for that…and also because he’s a really nice fellow. This is worlds away from the lean 2011 release and I’m inclined to put that down to vintage conditions although there may also be some intent behind it as well.
Slippery, unctuous and slightly waxy. Cinnamon, vanilla pods and warm spice with honeysuckle, baked pears and stonefruit. A richer, more sumptuous expression of Marsanne than we often see made in Australia. Ends on a powdery note with salted almonds and a complexing suggestion of bitterness. Mild chewy phenolics. Give it time top open up and don’t serve it too cold. It looked its best on the second day of tasting. 92
Region: Yarra Valley
Alcohol: 13.8%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $28
Tasted: February 2014