2024 Billy Button “The Mixed Up” Manseng

It was revealed in 2020 that all Petit Manseng plantings in Australia are actually Gros Manseng. This is a result of an ampelographic mix-up when material was imported from France in 1979.  – hence the name “The Mixed Up”.

The Manseng family of grape varieties hails from south west France. We thought we had the 'Petit' variety here in Australia, but recent DNA testing has shown it is actually the 'Gros' variety. Regardless, it makes delicious aromatic wine, high in natural acidity. 

This variety came to us for the first time in 2020 when Jo was on the hunt for parcels of fruit to replace Alpine Valleys fruit that was sadly destroyed by smoke taint. Originally only meant to be making a special guest appearance in the Billy Button varietal range as it is sourced from the King Valley it was decided that this parcel of Gros Manseng was a keeper.  It is now a permanent fixture in the Billy Button line up.

Gros Manseng is known for producing powerful and intensely flavoured wine. Think high acid, abundant flavours of apricot and quince and attractive spice and floral notes.

Say 'mahn-seng' or 'gro mahn-seng'

Production Notes

Once pressed the juice was settled, racked and inoculated with selected yeast. Ferment was low and slow with temperatures maintained at between 13 and 15 degrees. The wine was sulphured immediately post ferment and left on lees until clarification.  Bottled September 2024.

Tasting Notes

Fresh white florals with a generous and textural palate. Lifted and vibrant acidity, with layers of ripe stone fruit.

Technical details

Reviews

SILVER medal winner at the Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show (AAVWS)

"Picked riper than the previous release; more expressive. It also boasts a lovely, easy textural flow. Apple blossom and spring floral aromas with gooseberry, apple and citrus. Brings a mix of citrus and quince with green pineapple characters and hints of savoury almond skin. Smooth, juicy and inviting." Awarded 90 points, Halliday Wine Companion, Jeni Port - Published 17 March 2026