2024 Mitolo Trovato Fiano, McLaren Vale

Chairperson’s Trophy McLaren Vale Wine Show

Off the Lopresti vineyard, next to the pecorino vines; 60% direct pressed to tank, cold ferment, then finished in barrel; 40% saw six hours' skin contact, then pressed to barrel; seven months on lees. This has a modest abv, yet there’s none of the greenness that fiano can show when picked early. What it does show is both succulence and vivacious drive, paired with a savoury overlay both on nose and palate. Yellow grapefruit, white peach, makrut lime, the palate chewy, calmly textural, electrified by natural acidity. Very nice.

94 points Marcus Ellis winecompanion.com.au

Mitolo Trovato Fiano from McLaren Vale is a beautifully expressive white that captures the southern Italian soul of the Fiano grape through a distinctly Australian lens. Winemaker Ben Glaetzer brings his characteristic precision and purity of expression to this wine, showcasing the variety’s texture, perfume and subtle savoury complexity. “Trovato,” meaning “found” in Italian, reflects both Mitolo’s discovery of the perfect conditions for Fiano in McLaren Vale and the estate’s deep connection to its Mediterranean heritage.

The fruit comes from the Mitolo family’s estate vineyards near the coast, where cooling sea breezes temper the region’s warmth and help preserve brightness and aromatic lift. The vines are planted on sandy and alluvial soils that contribute both vibrancy and minerality. Grapes are hand picked and fermented in stainless steel with a small portion aged on lees in neutral oak to add roundness and texture.

In the glass it shines pale straw with green tints. The aroma is fresh and inviting, revealing pear, white peach and citrus blossom with subtle hints of almond, fennel and wet stone. The palate is medium bodied and finely textured, showing layers of ripe orchard fruit, lemon curd and savoury mineral tones balanced by crisp acidity. A gentle waxy richness and saline finish give the wine a sense of poise and persistence.

It pairs beautifully with seafood, grilled prawns, roast chicken with lemon and herbs, or pasta with olive oil and fresh vegetables. It’s also an excellent match for antipasti and soft cheeses. Enjoy it now for its brightness and vitality, or cellar for up to five years to develop deeper nutty and honeyed notes.