John Duval, Plexus, Ensamblaje MRV (Marsanne/ Roussanne/ Viognier) 2013, valle Barossa, Australia.
John Duval ‘Plexus White’ is a Rhone style blend of Marsanne, Roussanne and Viognier that promotes a vibrant expression of fruit aromas from the interaction of the three varieties; and on the palate, to build structure and texture, rather than just acid crispness.
Colour: Attractive pale straw with lime tinge.
Nose: Lifted aromas of stone fruits and citrus.
Palate: Medium bodied with texture and mouth feel. Flavours of mandarin, pear and Asian spice. Finishes with citrus, minimal acidity.
The Marsanne was sourced from the Marananga and Seppeltsfield region, Roussanne from the Kalimna region and Viognier from Eden Valley. Yields average 21/2 – 3 t/acre, on loam over clay soil.
The winemaking technique used includes gentle pressings were being combined with free run juice and cold settled. Fermentation commenced in stainless steel but some of the Marsanne and Viognier finished fermentation in and was aged in barrel until bottled in early September.
The remaining Marsanne and the Roussanne was aged on lees in tank until bottling, to enhance the structure and texture of the wine. 50% aged in fine grain French oak (with only 10% new oak) for 6 months.