Clairette is fascinating Mediterranean variety that naturally holds its acidity and, amongst other things, brings freshness and depth to the white blends of the Rhone Valley. Pete Schell is a master at these alternative varieties.
The fruit for this 2019 was sourced from a single, elevated site in Rowland Flat on the eastern side of the Barossa Valley, from vines that were grafted over to Clairette some ten years ago. The grapes were hand-harvested, chilled overnight and crushed, before maceration for four hours. The settled juice ferments wild, predominantly in stainless steel with a small proportion of old French oak. The resulting wine is STUNNING! Pulpy, seductively textured, yet perfectly pitched freshness and gentle grip. Super complex as well. This is superb and ridiculous value. Who says the Barossa can’t produce great whites?