I was sent scrambling for the literature when I came across this Aranel from Berton Vineyards. Born in France, this is a new variety to me. A fusion of Grenache Gris and Saint-Pierre Doré (another variety I have zero knowledge of), Berton Vineyard is the sole Australian producer of Aranel.
Created to produce high, reliable crop yields while naturally resisting vineyard diseases and retaining vibrant acidity in hot climates, it's a variety that appears to be perfectly suited to the warm embrace of the Riverina, and what an entrance it has made.
White lily flowers skip from the glass with joyous energy, joined by musk, cut pear and poached pear notes. The palate carries a tonic and chalky-like texture with a dash of saltiness sliding through. Green apple and lime juice bring freshness along with a citrusy tang. A crunchy acidity is cleansing, but it's worth noting the back palate drops away a touch, leaving the spotlight on the acid line. Drink it poolside, from a hammock, over a long lunch or with fish and chips. It's a most interesting wine and a great addition to the continual evolution of climate appropriate varieties now sprouting from Australian vineyards.
92/100
Region: Riverina
