2022 Fetherston Estate Magnolia Albarino, King Valley

This has seen 18 hours' skin contact before pressing to neutral barrels. Bright green gold, this is another convincing and varietally correct albariño from Fetherston. Gentle stone fruits, pear skin and honeysuckle lead onto the palate, which is very flavoursome, balanced and dry. Worth checking out.

91 points Special Value Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

Loads of character here, elevating the variety nicely. Preserved lemon, ginger notes, slightly buttery element to texture and flavour in a way, some quince paste character too. Feels good to sip on, quietly complex, pushing to medium weight yet refreshing. Ticking boxes.

92 points Mike Bennie winefront.com.au

The Fetherston Estate Magnolia Albariño from King Valley is a fresh and aromatic white wine that highlights the versatility of this Spanish grape variety in the cool-climate conditions of Victoria’s King Valley. Known for producing elegant and distinctive wines, King Valley’s high altitude and cooler temperatures provide the ideal environment for cultivating Albariño, a variety traditionally grown in Spain's Rías Baixas region.

The Magnolia Albariño offers an expressive nose with aromas of citrus, particularly lime and lemon, alongside hints of green apple, white peach, and subtle floral notes. On the palate, the wine is crisp and vibrant, with flavors of zesty lime, stone fruits, and a refreshing saline minerality. The natural acidity of Albariño shines through, giving the wine a lively and refreshing mouthfeel, making it perfect for pairing with seafood, particularly shellfish, as well as light salads and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

This Albariño captures both the varietal’s inherent freshness and the unique characteristics of King Valley’s terroir, making it an exciting wine for those seeking something outside of the more traditional varieties found in Australian wine.