2025 Primo Estate Joseph Pinot Grigio dÉlena, Adelaide Hills

This is classically styled but on the expressive and textural end of things, even at what is relatively modest alcohol, with acidity a key driver. Plump with varietal pear notes (both Williams and Bosc), red apple skin, cinnamon and poached apple. This has rolling layers of fruit marked by both generosity – of flavour and feel – and enough reserve, making it an eminently pleasing drink sans food, but also one that will happily hold its own with dishes fresh and bright to those with a bit more weight and fatty intensity. This bottling was an early benchmark for the grape here, and still is.

95 points Special Value Marcus Ellis winecompanion.com.au

Primo Estate Joseph Pinot Grigio d’Élena is a crisp and expressive white that pays homage to both family and place. Named after winemaker Joe Grilli’s daughter Elena, this wine reflects the vibrant elegance of Adelaide Hills fruit combined with the Italian sensibility that runs deep through the Primo Estate story. Joe Grilli has long been a champion of blending traditional European techniques with modern Australian winemaking, and this Pinot Grigio is a shining example of that philosophy.

Sourced from cool-climate vineyards in the higher altitudes of the Adelaide Hills, the grapes are harvested in the early morning to lock in acidity and preserve delicate aromatics. The fruit is gently pressed and fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel, with a short period of lees contact to build texture while retaining freshness. There is no oak influence, allowing the purity of the fruit and the vibrancy of the region to take centre stage.

In the glass, the wine opens with lifted aromas of nashi pear, lemon blossom, white nectarine and green apple. A hint of jasmine and almond skin adds nuance, while the palate is crisp and zesty, driven by bright citrus and pear with a lightly chalky finish. There is a beautiful line of acidity that gives the wine energy and precision, making it an ideal white for warm days and fresh fare.

This Pinot Grigio is perfect with grilled calamari and lemon, zucchini fritters with mint yoghurt, or Vietnamese rice paper rolls. It also shines with light pasta dishes, white pizza or a classic caprese salad. Drink it young while its vibrancy and floral lift are at their peak.

Primo Estate’s Joseph range is a celebration of family, tradition and quality, and the d’Élena Pinot Grigio offers all of that in a clean, refreshing and beautifully crafted wine.