A sophisticated evolution of cool-climate winemaking, the 2025 Melba Block Rosé showcases a luminous salmon hue with delicate copper clarity. On the nose, it opens with fragrant notes of wild strawberries and rose petals, underpinned by a tropical hint of guava and a soft, creamy complexity. The palate is beautifully textured and expansive, offering flavors of ripe raspberry and white peach alongside a subtle hint of watermelon. Thanks to 100% malolactic fermentation and time in aged oak, the wine possesses a silky mouthfeel perfectly balanced by a refreshing, citrus-led acidity. The finish is remarkably crisp and elegant, defined by a lingering mineral undertone and a savory depth that speaks to its premium Yarra Valley origins. A versatile and structural wine, it pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, herb-crusted poultry, or simply enjoyed on its own as the sun sets.
WINEMAKING
Crafted with a focus on texture and site expression, the fruit was 100% handpicked on 20 February 2025. To achieve its signature color and gentle phenolics, the grapes were whole bunch vacuum bladder pressed following 8 hours of skin contact. The juice was settled overnight before undergoing fermentation and maturation in aged French oak barrels for one month, followed by an additional seven months in stainless steel to marry freshness with complexity. This vintage saw 100% malolactic fermentation and was fermented sugar dry to enhance the wine’s natural weight and creaminess. Bottled unfined and unfiltered on 26 November 2025, only 255 dozen were produced of this pure expression of the Melba Block.
Melba Block
Situated at 150m above sea level, planted in the early 1980s. Similar to the Homeblock, the Melba block vines are all cared for by hand, 100% cane pruned to ensure best quality fruit is grown and hand harvested.
Situated at 230m above sea level was planted in the late 1970’s on an undulating slope on friable grey loam soils. Completely non irrigated and hand nurtured, surrounded by National Park. The vines are cared for by hand and the grapes carefully hand picked at the perfect harvest time. This 6+ acres comprises of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes.
Steels Gate Melba Block Vineyard
Situated at 150m above sea level was planted in the early 1980s. Similar to the Homeblock, the Melba vines are all cared for by hand, 100% cane pruned to ensure best quality fruit is grown and hand harvested.
Nagambie Vineyard
Nagambie Vineyard is a partnership with a family estate located in the picturesque Nagambie region. Still cool climate, this region produces lovely medium bodies reds and some lovely Rieslings and other similar white varieties.
