First Ridge 2025 Uova Bella Fiano Vermentino

Having tried impressive First Ridge 2025 fiano and vermentino releases just a few weeks ago, I was surprised to see this blend of the two varieties arrive from the same Mudgee winery. Having now tasted the blend I understand the reasoning. While the two single variety wines were fresh and crisp - fun wines for summer - this marriage of Sicilian and Sardinian flavours was fermented in an imported terracotta egg - a modern take on ancient amphorae. That has resulted in a blend that is more than the sum of its two parts; altogether more structural and potentially longer lived. The lees contact adds complexity without any oak involvement. The blend is 60% fiano and 40% vermentino. Impressively different. $45. www.firstridge.com.au.