RRP$25
King Valley, VIC
This is part of Innocent Bystander's summer release and is a field blend made from equal parts Chardonnay, Albarino and Pinot Grigio. Apparently, it's also Innocent Bystander's first attempt at a natural wine, which I absolutely applaud them for. I am curious about how they define a natural wine, though, because it seems that no one can agree. I think it should be organic/biodynamic fruit, natural ferment, no fining or filtration and no sulphur additions, but there was no information about what, exactly, made this natural. Let's just take it on face value and say that it's good it is to see bigger companies start to get involved with what was dismissed as a passing craze.
This smells like a pretty little thing, – grapefruit, lemon zest, bit of sea spray and white blossoms, almost taking its cues from Alsace. There is some acid, but a lovely juiciness comes through. Apple juice, orange, peach, nectarine and a floral lift too. Tight acid on the finish, making it refreshingly drinkable and more-ish. It's a shame that the sample only got to me at the end of summer rather than at the start, because it has picnic or beach vibes written all over it. For $25 I reckon this does a solid job.
Rating: ★★★☆
Classic, Weird or Funky? I know it is a 'natural' wine, but this is completely unchallenging.
Have it with? A sunny day or a warm evening. It's a picnic wine, for sure.
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