Marnong Estate 2025 Single Vineyard Montepulciano

Montepulciano is one of the most popular red grapes in Italy, second only to sangiovese, and it is widely grown across the centre and south of the country. Here, Marnong Estate winemaker Alex Beckett has produced an impressive version from the Sunbury region of Victoria, one of a band of new releases for winter. It is, typically for the variety, dark coloured and deeply flavoured with blackcurrant and herb notes ahead of blackberry intensity and savoury/deli notes. Perfect for pairing with a winter casserole, perhaps starring rabbit or mushroom. $37. marnongestate.com.au

Pizzini 2024 Verduzzo

 

Verduzzo eh? I can honestly say that I haven't drunk a lot of wine made from this white grape variety. This one comes from the Pizzini family in the King Valley, masters of many Italian varieties, and it turns out it is a very sharp wine - texturally interesting and very food friendly. Verduzzo can be traced back to the 1400s in north-east Italy, but is has always been a fringe grape despite its appealing chalkiness. With 50% fermented in stainless steel and 50% in oak, this has an impressive minerality/acidity balance and is drinking well at one year of age. The bad news: I got to this one late. THis vntage is sold out at the Pizzini cellars, but you might get lucky and find some in retail land. Pair with food as as you would a Chablis. $35. https://www.pizzini.com.au/         

Marnong Estate 2025 Rosé

 

Marnong Estate, whose winemaking team is headed by former Briar Ridge winemaker Alex Beckett, is very much a name to watch after recent major investments made in both the vineyards and a slick new high-tech winery. Marnong is based at Sunbury, on the fringe of the Macedon Ranges and just a short drive from Melbourne Airport. This new release is a delightfully fresh summer quaffer made from shiraz grapes but light and vibrant with tropical fruit aromas and strawberries and cream vivacity on the palate. Serve will chilled with canapés, or with a picnic. $25. https://marnongestate.com.au/