2022 Lark Hill Dark Hill Vineyard Marsanne, Canberra District

Super spicy and full of rich flavours of honeycomb, lanolin and a waxy note too. While there’s stone fruit, glacé citron and a hint of tropical fruit, there’s perky acidity too. The palate is textural and builds with creamy lees and more honeyed nuances.

90 points Jane Faulkner winecompanion.com.au

Lark Hill Dark Hill Vineyard Marsanne from the Canberra District is a remarkable expression of this Rhône Valley variety, showcasing the cool-climate elegance and unique terroir of the region. Lark Hill, a family-owned winery established in 1978, is renowned for its commitment to biodynamic practices and crafting wines that embody purity and site-specific character. This Marsanne is grown in their Dark Hill Vineyard, a site carefully selected for its altitude, soil composition, and ability to produce grapes of exceptional quality.

Marsanne, a variety prized for its versatility and ageability, thrives in the Canberra District’s cool climate. The Dark Hill Vineyard, situated at an altitude of over 860 meters, benefits from sunny days and cool nights, which promote slow, even ripening and vibrant natural acidity. The biodynamic approach to viticulture ensures the health of the vines and the integrity of the fruit, free from synthetic inputs.

The winemaking team, led by Chris Carpenter, focuses on minimal intervention to let the character of the vineyard shine. The grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed, with fermentation carried out in a combination of stainless steel and oak barrels. This approach preserves the varietal’s bright fruit character while adding subtle layers of complexity.

In the glass, Lark Hill Dark Hill Vineyard Marsanne reveals a pale gold hue. The nose is a captivating mix of citrus, honeysuckle, and stone fruit aromas, underscored by hints of almond and a delicate minerality. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and textured, with flavors of ripe pear, lemon curd, and a touch of white peach. A fresh acidity balances the richness, leading to a long, refined finish. This wine pairs beautifully with dishes like roast chicken, creamy risottos, or shellfish.