Murray Street Vineyards Black Label Marsanne 2011

From Rhone comes this variety which is traditionally blended with Roussanne. Marsanne has been grown in Australia for 150 years, and much of this is predominantly grown in Victoria. Amazingly, 80% of Marsanne in the world is grown in Australia!

This wine comes from one of six wineries in the Barossa Valley growing Marsanne including Turkey Flat, Spinifex, Yalumba, Torbreck, and Steinborner Family wines. Tahbilk in Victoria's Nagambie Lakes region still is king of this variety in Australia with the largest planting of just over 38 hectares.

This example from Murray Street Vineyards entry level range Black Label, shows a nose of honey on toast. Distinct flavours of pear on the palate are prominent, a slither of almond, along with a cheeky spice. But what strikes me is the cleansing palate, not unlike a Riesling in some respects, showing a great acid profile which will lend itself to aging well. There is an oily texture on the palate too, also a trait of Marsanne as it ages. Being only a 2011 vintage, this is on the right track to develop beautifully.

Enjoy with food - a delightful match with a baked prawn and leek risotto as I found out.

Who: Murray Street Vineyards http://www.murraystreet.com.au/
What: Marsanne (11.5% abv)
Where: Barossa Valley
When: 2011
How: $25

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