2024 Cooks Lot White Tigers Gewurztraminer, Orange

Freesia and rose petals, sticks of lemongrass, galangal and mangosteen. This is an exotic tropical holiday with pandan and coconut flesh in abundance. The heady notes of gewürztraminer may not be everyone's cup of tea, but taste the berries off the vine and you'll change your mind. Here, Duncan has captured freshness and zeal along with some bitter tea elements to bring together a wine that hits all the touch points of deliciousness. Its middle palate is weighted but with springy acidity and energy along for the ride.

92 points Shanteh Wales winecompanion.com.au

High in the cool, elevated vineyards of Orange comes an aromatic white that shows just how expressive Gewurztraminer can be in a continental Australian climate. Cook’s Lot sources fruit from sites sitting around 800 to 900 metres above sea level, where volcanic basalt soils and cold nights slow ripening and preserve natural acidity. Orange has earned a strong reputation for vibrant, finely structured aromatic whites, and White Tigers captures both fragrance and freshness in equal measure.

Pale straw with subtle golden highlights, the nose is immediately perfumed and inviting. Lychee, rose petal and Turkish delight rise from the glass, layered with ginger spice, citrus peel and a hint of exotic florals. There is a lifted freshness that keeps the aromatics focused rather than overly opulent.

On the palate it is medium bodied with a gentle textural richness balanced by bright acidity. Lychee, pear and mandarin glide across the tongue, supported by a fine line of citrus and subtle spice. The finish is long and aromatic, lingering with rosewater, ginger and a touch of mineral freshness that reflects its cool climate origin.

Pair with Thai green curry, Vietnamese fresh rolls, spicy pork dishes or washed rind cheeses. Best enjoyed in its youth over the next three to five years to capture its vibrant aromatics and lively structure.