Unwrapped: Delatite Wines Pinot Gris 2024

This Delatite Pinot Gris showcases the cool climate advantage of Victoria's Upper Goulburn region, where slower ripening preserves the grape's natural acidity while developing complex flavours. The hand-picked fruit and cool climate focus creates a wine that balances the variety's characteristic richness with vibrant freshness. Unlike warmer climate versions that can be heavy, this maintains elegance and precision that's become Delatite's signature style.

The exceptional 95-point rating reflects Delatite's mastery of cool climate winemaking and their consistent quality over decades. Halliday recognised the wine's perfect balance between racy acidity and the natural plushness of Pinot Gris, plus its expression of terroir from the Upper Goulburn's unique conditions. The Special Value Award indicates this wine punches well above its weight class, delivering premium quality at an accessible price point.

The wine's apricot and lemon zest flavours, combined with its light body and fresh acidity, make it perfect for seafood dishes, particularly grilled prawns or pan-fried fish with citrus. The natural richness of Pinot Gris also complements creamy pasta dishes and soft cheeses. Its vegan-friendly production means it pairs beautifully with plant-based cuisine, especially dishes featuring stone fruits or herbs.

The 2024 vintage has earned 'Killer Vintage' recognition, suggesting exceptional growing conditions that year in the Upper Goulburn region. Cool climate regions like this often produce their best Pinot Gris in years with extended ripening periods and good diurnal temperature variation. Delatite's consistent track record means each vintage maintains their house style while expressing the unique character of that particular growing season.

While Pinot Gris is typically enjoyed for its fresh, youthful character, quality examples like this can develop beautifully over 2-3 years. The wine's racy acidity provides a backbone for short-term ageing, where the apricot flavours may evolve into more honeyed notes. However, given its fresh, juicy style and the immediate pleasure it offers, there's no need to wait - this wine is drinking beautifully right now.