Tahbilk Estate Marsanne 2025 | Nagambie Victoria

Winemaking Notes

Tahbilk's history with Marsanne can be traced back to the 1860s with the sourcing of 'White Hermitage' cuttings from the 'St Huberts' Vineyard in Victoria's Yarra Valley. The cuttings were in fact Marsanne but sadly none of these plantings have survived. The Estate still does however produce Marsanne from vines established in 1927 – some of the oldest in the world. One of the world's rarest grape varieties with its origins in the Northern Rhône and Hermitage regions of France, Tahbilk has some of the oldest vines and largest single holding of Marsanne in the world. Tahbilk Marsanne has a dedicated global following due to its thrilling character and appeal as a young wine with intense lemon, citrus and tropical fruits on a crisp mineral edged finish. Its proven ability to develop added complexity and character if cellared, when rich honeysuckle and citrus marmalade characters come to the fore, has led to the Purbrick family to set aside small quantities of each vintage to be then made available when bottle-aged. The 2025 Marsanne is distinguished by the expressive varietal characteristics and lively acidity exhibited by all Estate Whites from that year. Lifted and intense citrus, spice and springtime floral aromas create a delicious promise that is then delivered on a bright and lively palate of more citrus, tropical and ripe pear notes.

Vintage Conditions

The 2025 vintage at Tahbilk Estate in Nagambie Lakes was distinguished by expressive varietal characteristics and lively acidity exhibited by all Estate Whites from that year. With good rainfall in November, it seemed that they were once again looking at a wet season, however it did not pan out that way in the long run, and reality was, it was very dry. There was little if any rainfall for the summer months, leading into early Autumn, and there were no 'down tools' days in the Winery due to rain. Once they got going, they really didn't stop and harvest was over in around 8 weeks from start to finish. The ripening was very orderly this year. First came the early harvest Whites and Pinot Noir for Sparkling base, followed by the balance of the Whites, leading into the Rosés and then finishing off with the Reds. Yields were also very good, on the higher side of average, but definitely not high enough to compromise quality. The Whites are very expressive in their varietal characteristics and the acids have held up well. The 2025 Marsanne showcases lifted and intense citrus, spice and springtime floral aromas with honeysuckle, white flowers, acacia, green almond, apple and honeydew melon. The bright and lively palate delivers citrus, tropical and ripe pear notes with racy, lemony acidity. Age will see further characteristic richness and complexity develop. 95 Points from Jeni Port: "So fine, so delicate and just starting its journey... Looking good for a bright future."