Dominique Portet Fontaine Rose 2022

Fontaine Rosé, the staple of the Portet’s huge impact on the industry is a beautiful blend of 55% Merlot, 35% Shiraz and 10% Cabernet.  Long regarded as Australia’s first true Provence style – and arguably most successful – dry Rosé. Red berries are joined with bright citrus on the palate from the Merlot and Shiraz, with Cabernet delivering the intensity and drive on the finish.

All the fruit is hand picked before gently crushing and pressing. It’s then fermented into stainless steel tanks for freshness and lees are then stirred regularly to give the wine it’s soft texture and bright mouthfeel. In true Provence fashion, this wine is a pretty, light pink-bronze colour. On the nose, there’s a lifted Peach Melba aroma, with a strawberry compote addition. It has an attractive, gentle texture. Fine natural acidity draws out the palate to a moreish finish.

94 points, James Halliday Australian Wine Companion “A hand-picked and fragrant blend of 50/35/15% merlot/cabernet sauvignon/shiraz with aromas of wild spring flowers and spices. The palate is positively fruity (but not sweet).”

92 points, Gary Walsh, The Wine Front “.. Good wine, and invariably good and tasty is the rosato from Portet. Redcurrant, strawberry, a little aniseed and dried rose perfume. Crisp, a little milky in texture, with blood orange tang, smooth yet sappy, and a little bit savoury and nutty. It’s always a good drink, and same again in 2022. Excellent. Fresh and tasty, a little truffle/earthiness too.”