Castagna Growers’ Selection Harlequin 2016

An intriguing amber wine from mainly chardonnay, savagnin, and riesling thoughtfully blended with small portions of roussanne and viognier. The extended skin-contact unleashes the superior aromatic complexity of the thick-skinned savagnin, roussanne and viognier grapes. Beechworth Chardonnay, with its bespoke generosity, glues the parts together while viognier provides further weight. Riesling offers balance and a sought after freshness along with savagnin. All makes sense, yet nothing like I have ever encountered in the world of wine. It’s like a bottled road trip on France’s east side from Alsace to Jura to the Southern Rhone. 

The curated sensory journey begins with a luscious, deep yellow colour and continues with lifted aromas. Layers of white peach, nectarine, red apple skin, dried apple, pear drop, with ripe citrus, green mango and almond undertones. The palate unveils lots of texture and an alluring savoury restraint. Fine, chalky tannins and a slight heat stylishly mould in with the brisk acidity and saline minerality. A feast for the senses with a long, mouthwatering finish!