2024 Vermentino

McLaren Vale, SA

Vermentino might just be the next big thing — an Italian variety that’s starting to get noticed for all the right reasons. It’s kind of the best of a few worlds: brings some floral lift like Riesling, has the texture and palate weight you’d find in a good Chardonnay, and finishes bone dry with a salty snap that makes you want another glass straight away.

This one opens with honeysuckle and jasmine on the nose — fragrant without being perfumed — and a hint of seaspray that gives it a bit of coastal charm. On the palate, it’s bright and zippy but with a lovely slippery texture through the middle, finishing long, clean, and dry. No oak, no fluff, just pure, characterful white wine.

It’s ideal for Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris drinkers who are up for something a little different but not too out-there. Like, if you want to upgrade your usual white but don’t want to sit around analysing it — this’ll do the trick.

Food Match
Keep it fresh and fun:

– Anything from the ocean — grilled prawns, oysters, calamari. That salty edge in the wine loves seafood.
– Crumbed whiting and chips — seriously, this is next-level fish and chip wine.
– Pasta with lemon, garlic, olive oil and herbs — keep it simple, let the wine do the heavy lifting.
– Goat’s cheese or fresh ricotta — that floral note plays really nicely off creamy, tangy cheese.

Basically, if the sun’s out and someone’s cooking, this wine belongs on the table