2020 Mandala Fumé Blanc, Yarra Valley

The inaugural release, made from hand-picked fruit, whole clusters pressed to old oak, wild fermented and aged 9 months. It's a really good outcome. Crunchy citrussy flavours, passionfruit pith, pine needle and basil coolness are matched to a more textural palate. Plenty of acidity ensures a delicious drink right now.

95 points Special Value Jane Faulkner winecompanion.com.au

Perched among the rolling hills of Dixon's Creek, Mandala Wines has become one of the Yarra Valley's most charming boutique estates. Founded by Charles Smedley and his family, the winery combines a relaxed hospitality ethos with a serious commitment to quality winemaking. The estate vineyards enjoy the cool climate conditions that have made the Yarra Valley one of Australia's premier wine regions, producing wines that emphasise elegance, freshness and varietal expression.

Fumé Blanc traces its roots to the Loire Valley, though the style was famously revived by Robert Mondavi as a richer, more textural interpretation of Sauvignon Blanc. At Mandala, the wine is crafted from carefully selected fruit and fermented with oak influence to add complexity and depth while retaining the vibrant character of the variety. The result sits beautifully between the freshness of Sauvignon Blanc and the texture often associated with fine white Burgundy.

Bright pale gold in colour, the bouquet offers layers of grapefruit, preserved lemon and white peach alongside notes of fresh herbs, subtle smoke and toasted almond. The palate combines citrus driven energy with a creamy texture, revealing flavours of nectarine, lemon curd and ripe pear framed by gentle oak spice. A fine mineral thread carries the wine through a long, savoury finish that balances richness with refreshing acidity.

A superb match for grilled lobster, seared scallops, roast chicken with tarragon, smoked trout pâté or a roasted cauliflower and hazelnut salad. Now with several years of bottle age, the wine has developed additional complexity while retaining its freshness and structure. The 2020 vintage showcases how well the Fumé Blanc style can work in the Yarra Valley, offering a sophisticated and food friendly alternative to more conventional Sauvignon Blanc.