2025 Lethbridge Menage A Noir, Victoria

Ray Nadeson and Maree Collis established Lethbridge in 1996 in the Moorabool Valley, northwest of Geelong, on a site with viticultural roots stretching back to 1874. Biodynamic farming and minimal intervention in the winery have been central to the Lethbridge philosophy from the outset.

The 2025 season delivered warm spring conditions and an early trouble-free harvest, producing wines of real brightness and floral lift. Fruit was handpicked across Geelong's three subregions and destemmed before cold soaking. Partial whole bunch and wild fermentation in a large old wooden fermenter was followed with a rest in predominantly seasoned French oak.

Dark cherry, satsuma plum and red berry on the nose, with earthy spice and a forest floor thread that is unmistakably Geelong. The palate is vibrant and medium-bodied, with crunchy tannins, fresh acidity and an elegant, lingering finish.

Japanese-style teriyaki chicken with pickled vegetables would suit the wine's earthy, fruit-forward character beautifully.