2015 Billy Button ‘The Versatile’ Vermentino
The Alpine Valleys region boasts a proud Italian-origin population, many of them second or third generation who have followed their parents in to 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 several Italian grape varieties, including this Vermentino which is grown in various Italian regions, particularly Sardinia. This fruit comes from the Ferraro Vineyard at Myrtleford. This was a popular wine last vintage and Jo had no hesitation in sourcing it again and has attempted to make a more complex, rich style as opposed to the crisp fruity styles that proliferate.
Say 'ver-men-tee-no'
Production Notes
The handpicked grapes were whole bunch pressed, but allowed some skin contact before pressing the juice out. Natural ferment on full solids took place in stainless steel. The wine stayed on ferment lees for 2 months with occasional stirring to enrich the texture and add complexity. The wine underwent partial malolactic fermentation to add dimension and mouthfeel to the wine.
"A remarkable perfumed, textural, slippery-skinned wine/ It snakes across the palate with effortless ease. Peach, tropical fruit, a hint of butter, citrus rind. Fresh. Almost racy. But with more than enough flavour to latch onto." Campbell Mattinson - Published 21 June 2021 Halliday Wine Companion
Technical details
Vineyard: Ferraro Vineyard, Myrtleford
Region: Alpine Valleys
Harvest date: 3rd March
Alcohol: 12.5%
Volume made: 120 dozen
Winemaker: Jo Marsh