Mount Macleod Gruner Veltliner 2021

Mount Macleod is the second label of the Burgundian-inspired (and boutique-scaled) Caledonia Australis who, in their fairly short lifespan, have carved a reputation amongst Pinot cognoscenti as a fine source of excellent value, aromatically complex and elegant Pinot Noir.

Mount Macleod’s wines are not looking to make the headlines, win trophies, or the like. What we have instead is a set of great value, honest-to-goodness deliciousness from an organic Australian grower with an impressive set of values and practices. Mark Matthews is never going to win any awards for marketing or self-promotion, so it’s just as well he’s rather diligent at his day job. The kind of green credentials practiced at this family-owned Gippsland Estate deserves to be applauded. Winegrower-ecologist Matthews has recently passed his 10th year of organic certification and has instigated a weed management program using a combination of firestick and hard labour.

The crop was wild-fermented and raised mainly in stainless steel, with one neutral barrel in the mix to add breadth and complexity. It’s a striking, savoury dry white with intense white pepper and green plum aromas and flavours, along with something exotic akin to guava or even rosewater. It’s got texture but it’s overall very racy, with a sappy, cool close. 

The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Gruner Veltliner
Country - Australia
Region - Gippsland, VIC
Vintage - 2021
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 11.4%