2023 Marion's Vineyard Pet Nat Mut Lunacy, Tasmania

Marion’s Vineyard is one of Tasmania’s most characterful and picturesque wine estates, perched on the banks of the Tamar River in the north of the island. Established in 1979 by Cypriot-born Marion Semichon and her family, it is one of the earliest vineyards in the region and remains family-run today. The site enjoys a unique maritime microclimate, with north-facing slopes that capture abundant sunshine, while cool breezes from the river preserve freshness and acidity. The soils, a mix of ancient volcanic loam and river sediments, add further complexity to the wines. Over the decades, Marion’s Vineyard has become known not only for its high-quality fruit but also for its creativity and willingness to experiment, and the Pet Nat Mut Lunacy is a perfect example of this playful spirit.

Pet Nat Mut Lunacy is a pétillant naturel — a naturally sparkling wine — made in the ancestral method, where fermentation finishes in the bottle to create gentle, natural effervescence. Crafted from estate-grown fruit, the wine is a blend that changes slightly from year to year, chosen for vibrancy, aromatic lift, and balance. The result is a hazy, lightly sparkling wine with a rustic charm and layers of personality. In the glass, it offers bright aromas of citrus zest, wild berries, orchard blossom, and a hint of fresh bread from the lees. The palate is lively and refreshing, with flavours of redcurrant, pear, and tangy pink grapefruit, underscored by a savoury edge and fine, persistent bubbles. Minimal intervention winemaking and no fining or filtering ensure that the wine remains a pure expression of its fruit and place.

It is a brilliant companion to a summer picnic spread, fried whitebait with lemon, wood-fired pizza topped with fresh herbs, or soft goat cheese with beetroot salad. Best enjoyed young for its vibrant energy, it is a wine that invites sharing and conversation.