Australia's Best Montepulciano? We Came Pretty Close.
When the team at Young Gun of Wine set out to find Australia's best Montepulciano, they gathered examples from across the country and put them in front of an expert panel for a blind tasting.
No labels. No reputations. No preconceived ideas.
Just the wines.
We're incredibly proud to share that our 2024 Montepulciano was ranked second overall in the tasting, placing it among the highest-rated examples of the variety being produced in Australia today.
A Variety Built for Australia's Future
Montepulciano may have its roots in central Italy, but it's increasingly finding a natural home in Australia. Known for producing deeply coloured wines with vibrant fruit, generous texture and bright acidity, it's also proving remarkably suited to warmer growing conditions. In fact, Young Gun of Wine described the variety as "climate-apt", capable of thriving as Australian wine regions adapt to a warming climate.
What the Judges Loved
In the blind tasting, our Montepulciano was praised for its balance, structure and sense of place.
Judge Ciarán Hudson noted aromas of "baked black cherry cake", blackberry and cacao nibs, while describing the wine as balanced, generous and lengthy on the palate. Winemaker James Scarcebrook highlighted its spice, savoury complexity and lingering tannins, while Zoë Ladyman was drawn to its freshness, chalky tannins and mineral character.
Most importantly, it was a wine that multiple judges independently returned to throughout the tasting - the ultimate compliment in a blind judging environment.
Why Blind Tastings Matter
Wine awards are always appreciated, but blind tastings hold a special significance.
Without seeing the label, knowing the producer or considering price, judges are left with only one thing to assess: the quality of the wine itself.
To be recognised in that environment is enormously rewarding for our vineyard and winemaking teams, who work hard every vintage to let the fruit speak for itself.
A Variety Worth Discovering
If you've never tried Montepulciano before, this is the perfect place to start.
Expect dark berry fruit, savoury herbs, fine tannins and plenty of personality. It's equally at home alongside a slow-cooked lamb shoulder, woodfired pizza or simply shared around the table with friends.
And if you've already discovered a love for Montepulciano, we're honoured that ours has been recognised among Australia's finest.
Shop the 2024 Montepulciano online or visit us at the Cellar Door to experience one of Australia's top-rated examples for yourself.
