Review of St Leonards Vineyard Marsie 2022

Winery Information: St Leonards Vineyard Rutherglen, Australia Website: stleonardswine.com.au

Review: The 2022 Marsie from St Leonards Vineyard is a groundbreaking release that highlights the innovative spirit of winemaking in Rutherglen, Australia. Known for its rich winemaking heritage, St Leonards has ventured into new territory with this unique blend, showcasing the region’s versatility and the winemaker’s creativity.

The Marsie is a small-batch, dry skin-contact wine made from 25% Muscat and 75% Marsanne. This blend is not only unique but also beautifully executed. The wine pours a slightly pink hue, a visual testament to its Muscat component and skin contact process. The nose is a vibrant explosion of aromatics, featuring apricot, white peach, and rose petal, with a hint of orange blossom that adds a floral complexity.

On the palate, the 2022 Marsie is dry and textural, offering a refreshing departure from the often heavy, sweet styles associated with Muscat. The initial flavors of apricot and peach are complemented by a backbone of citrus and minerality, providing a crisp and clean finish. The wine’s texture is enhanced by partial barrel aging in seasoned French puncheons, which adds a subtle creaminess and depth without overshadowing the bright fruit flavors.

The unfiltered nature of the wine gives it a slightly cloudy appearance, which only adds to its charm and authenticity. This lack of fining and filtration allows the wine to retain its full range of flavors and textures, offering a more natural and unadulterated drinking experience.

The Marsie is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. Its vibrant acidity and dry finish make it a perfect match for a variety of dishes. It pairs wonderfully with Asian cuisine, where its fruitiness complements the spice and richness of dishes like Thai curry or Vietnamese spring rolls. Indian dishes, particularly those with creamy sauces, also benefit from the wine’s acidity and fruit profile. Additionally, earthy flavors such as mushroom risotto or roasted root vegetables are enhanced by the wine’s complexity.

Winemaker Nick Brown has created a wine that not only reflects the traditions of Rutherglen but also pushes the boundaries of what can be achieved with innovative winemaking techniques. The 2022 St Leonards Vineyard Marsie is a delightful and intriguing wine that promises to please both adventurous wine enthusiasts and those looking for something truly unique.

Score: 91.2/100