Billy Button Vermentino 2023

The Alpine Valleys region boasts a proud Italian-origin population, many of them second or third generation who have followed their parents into crop growing. Tobacco used to be a significant industry, hence the iconic kiln houses that dot the landscape. Once tobacco declined, many took to growing grapes and hence the area has an array of Italian grape varieties, including Vermentino. This variety is grown in various Italian regions and originate from Sardinia. This fruit comes from the Ferraro Vineyard at Myrtleford. Growing this sun loving variety in a cool climate means that Jo can pick the fruit a little riper while still retaining good acidity.  This results in a richer more textural style of Vermentino.

A cool season, especially for Vermentino (a variety that loves heat) has produced a delicate wine with attractive citrus qualities and great natural acidity.  

The fruit was machine harvested and pressed as one component to a holding tank where it was partially settled overnight. Using Flexcubes and stainless steel, the juice was then split into several batches and inoculated with selected yeast. Ferments were slow and cool, with temperatures maintained around 15 degrees. Wine was then held on lees with occasional stirring to enrich texture before final blending and clarification. Bottled September 2023.

Sourced from the Ferraro Vineyard at Myrtleford, this Vermentino has lifted citrus and melon aromas, with hints of spice and a textured palate. Our expression of Vermentino shows how happily it partners with so many different cuisines and occasions (it's a floozy at heart!)

Optimal Drinking Window – now until 2028

Vineyard:             Ferraro Vineyard, Myrtleford

Region:                Alpine Valleys

Alcohol:               13%

Winemaker:        Glenn James, Melissa Fettke and Jo Marsh 

 

Awarded GOLD medal at the 2023 North East Victorian Wine Challenge

Awarded SILVER medal at the 2024 National Cool Climate Wine Show

Awarded SILVER medal at the 2023 Victorian Wine Show

 

"Racy, juicy and succulent with immediate drinking enjoyment in mind. It's hard to ask for more. The Italian grape shines in refreshing lime, grapefruit, yellow apple and spring aromatics. In the mouth, it rolls warmly across the middle palate and then takes off, driven by zippy acidity." Awarded 93 points, Halliday Wine Companion, Jeni Port - Published 20 February 2024

 

"Exceptional vermentino.  Perhaps the best expression from Australia, a land that surely deserve more give the lifestyle.  Spiced quince, a squeeze of preserved lemon lathered in more salt than usual and such brio and confidence across the surging finish that I can't help but reach for another glass.  This takes on Sardinia with ease."  Awarded 93 points JamesSuckling.com, Ned Goodwin - Published 1 February, 2024.