2024 Yangarra Roussanne Biodynamic, McLaren Vale

There’s a lovely freshness here, with floral and saline-edged aromas supported by delicate notes of honeysuckle, lemon confit and mandarin oranges. The palate shows great tension and purity, driven by a mineral line of acidity. Pristine and generous, without any of the fleshiness of warmer vintages. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

94 points James Suckling

Hand-picked before slow and gentle pressing, keeping the finest free-run separate. Matured for seven months in 1–3-year-old French oak puncheons and a cocciopesto amphora. There’s lovely density on display here with preserved lemon, baked peach, baked yellow apple, grilled nectarine and candied ginger making up the core. Delicate stone fruit blossom notes dance around the edges adding prettiness, along with allusions of manuka honey, saltbush and some grilled-nut savouriness. The aromatic balance is very attractive, with the fruit, floral and savoury tones melding perfectly. The palate is richly textured while still precise and fresh — yellow apple, peach, nectarine, gentle honey, grilled nuts, candle wax. The phenolics and acidity hold hands to cut it all up and frame it long – very long, in fact – with the former adding a subtly papery texture. Intensity, texture, complexity and ample structure – it’s all there and still with a fresh appeal. Excellent

94 points Winepilot

While Yangarra is renowned for its exceptional Grenache, the estate has quietly become one of Australia's leading champions of Rhône white varieties. Farmed biodynamically under the guidance of winemaker Peter Fraser, this Roussanne is an outstanding example of a variety that remains wonderfully underrated, revealing just how beautifully it thrives in the ancient sands of McLaren Vale.

The fruit is sourced from the estate's certified biodynamic vineyards, where deep sandy soils, warm days and cooling coastal breezes encourage slow, even ripening. Gentle whole bunch pressing and careful lees maturation build texture and complexity while preserving the freshness and distinctive character that make Roussanne such a fascinating variety.

The colour is a brilliant pale gold with youthful green highlights. Aromas of quince, white peach and preserved lemon are lifted by honeysuckle, chamomile and a hint of almond. The palate is richly textured yet beautifully poised, combining ripe orchard fruits with savoury complexity, fine natural acidity and a gentle mineral thread. Notes of beeswax and subtle spice linger through a long, elegant finish.

A superb partner for roast chicken with tarragon, grilled lobster, pork loin with apple, roasted cauliflower with brown butter or creamy mushroom risotto. Enjoy over the next six to eight years as further honeyed and savoury complexity develops.