The grapes came from King Valley (Victoria) – a one-off wine as untimely bushfires in Victoria possibly tainted sources of Bill’s usual range of Pinot Noirs. A pretty presentation – the  wax top was easily removed, as was a diam cork, and a there is very impressive Reg Mombassa label. Petit Manseng is the key variety of the long-living sweet wines of south-west France- and I doubt I’ve tried any! Some information is here.

But this wine is still a bright clear lemon colour; aromatics are subdued but lemon and lanolin are present. The palate has more interest- stonefruit, lime, candied peel, green apple, and quince. There is perhaps 40 g/l residual sugar, but this is very neatly absorbed in its balanced tangy acidity. Some phenolic texture rounds out the picture. This wine is right in the slot, and more time won’t add to its nuances. Unusual, and a pleasant, enjoyable surprise.

Drink to 2020 (for its brisk and refreshing aspects) and 88 points.