Who makes it

Delatite has long been one of the benchmarks of small family run biodynamic wineries. The Ritchie family is also very well known for their white wines, particularly their Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris. Pinot Gris from around the area of Mansfield, Victoria are often widely sought by out of region winemakers. Such is its reputation.

Mansfield is just to the south of the King Valley wine regions. These regions are part of Australia’s ‘High Country’ due to those region’s proximity to the Victorian Alpine region and ski slopes. It is no surprise then, that these regions are cool climate and very well suited for aromatic white wines. And only a short drive north of Melbourne.

How they make it

The use of capitals in the word on the label of Delatite MansField is not in error. This is a field blend, not just grown around Mansfield itself. It is a blend of Pinot Gris (30%), Gewurztraminer (28%), Chardonnay (20%), Riesling (18%) and Viognier (4%). A field blend generally refers to the grape varieties all grown together in the same vineyard and harvested around the same time. Field blends also tend to be processed and fermented all together and not in separate varietal batches.

In keeping with their biodynamic philosophy, only wild yeasts are used in the ferment. After ferment, the wine spends 10 months in large old oak. Finally, minimal sulphur is used. Just enough to make sure that this pristine wine is kept pristine.

What does it taste like

This is a very pretty white wine. The cool climate aromatics have been captured and shine. Floral, lime and peach fruit with a savoury minerality. It is dry, medium bodied white that shows impeccable balance and a crisp soft acid. The flavours last for a long moment.

It is an elegant wine that will also remarkably be long lived in the cellar, thanks to that fresh acid.

What to drink with it

It goes without saying that a fragrant wine like this Delatite MansField is a great choice for Asian flavours, or with a pork knuckle, some grilled Scallops, or a fish dish. As it ages and gains some more honeyed notes, then deeper flavours would also work.

Cheese

Bloomy cheeses, such as brie or camembert. Although, don’t forget some feta and fresh chevre would also be a good match.

Quickie review «A perfumed dry white that is not only a good drink now, but will continue to evolve in the mid term.»

Country of Origin: Upper Goulburn, Australia
Tasting Date: July 2021
Price:   UK£19.5 | US$ | AU$30 
Drink: now – 7+ years
Needs food: no
Source: tasting

If you liked this wine, you might also like Paracombe Gruner V5

See delatitewinery.com.au for more information.