2025 Dandelion Vineyards Wishing Clock Sauvignon Blanc, Adelaide Hills

Elena Brooks founded Dandelion Vineyards with a clear intent: to make wines that speak plainly of the places they come from. Born in Bulgaria and trained in oenology in Australia, she has worked vintages across Europe and South Australia before settling in McLaren Vale. Her winemaking philosophy is built around restraint — spending time in the vineyard, then stepping back in the winery.

The Wishing Clock is a Sauvignon Blanc from a single vineyard at 525 metres above sea level in the heart of the Adelaide Hills. Free-run juice only, fermented slowly in small stainless-steel tanks at low temperature to preserve aromatics, then bottled directly with minimal filtration and no fining. Bone dry, 12% alcohol, with the bright natural acidity the Adelaide Hills altitude reliably delivers.

Gooseberry, honeysuckle and green apple on the nose with a mineral, almost rain-fresh quality. The palate is light and lively — lemon, lime, green bean and a hint of orange peel, with fine acidity carrying it to a clean, refreshing finish.

The wine's bright acidity and citrus freshness are easy company for anything light and herb-driven: Thai fish cakes; a goat's cheese and herb tart with a green salad, or grilled asparagus with a soft-boiled egg and tarragon vinaigrette.

Drink now.