The growing season experienced a normal wet winter followed by a picturesque dry spring. The weather patterns indicated a shift from La Niña towards El Niño, usually favouring drier and hotter conditions. In these warmer seasons, we adjust our vineyard practices to encourage healthy canopy and adequate fruit development. With the help of mother nature and the unexpected high summer rainfall in December and January, it resulted in larger bunches and consistent berry development. Warm conditions prevailed through February and early March, promoting ripening of flavours and sugars with the balance we were aiming for. The warmth led to an intense couple of weeks, during which we harvested the majority of the grapes. The 2024 vintage offered great consistency across varieties showcasing purity alongside intensity.
All varieties hand-picked and sorted separately. Roussanne handpicked 12th March, Grenache Blanc on the 22nd March, Grenache Gris and Clairette on 4th April. Portions of the Grenache Blanc and Roussanne destemmed and crushed to ceramic egg and macerated on skins for an extended period, approximately 4 months. The remaining batches were destemmed, with juice pressed to ceramic egg for fermentation. No sulphur is added until the completion of fermentation or extended skin contact is drained. Matured in ceramic for a total of 7 months. 48% of the final blend was skin contacted. Bottled November 2024. Certified Organic/Biodynamic.
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker Wine Advocate
The 2024 Ovitelli Blanc is led by Grenache Gris (31%), Grenache Blanc (28%) and Clairette (22%), with the balance Roussanne. The season here was warm and dry, however widespread rains in January positively set the tone for the season. The wine here is perfumed and floral, with mineral/rock-based phenolics that shape the flavors across the palate. Winemaker Pete Fraser credits the heightened aromas here to the increased quantity of Grenache Gris in the blend. A tremendous wine, it is elegant and sophisticated, and the experience is predicated on skin/fruit tannin. Sealed under screw cap. Drink now - 2034
- 95 points
September, 2025
