When it comes to Australian winemakers, few are as esteemed as John Duval. Appointed Chief Winemaker at Penfolds in 1986, Duval followed in the footsteps of Australian winemaking greats including Max Schubert and Don Ditter, and was the custodian of Penfolds Grange for almost 30 years. In 2003, John Duval established his eponymous label, with a focus on old vine Barossa Valley Shiraz, along with some select other Rhone varietals.
The 2023 John Duval Plexus White is a classic 'Rhone style' white wine blend of Roussanne, Marsanne and Viognier. This offers plenty of vibrant, lifted aromas of nectarine, peach and pear with hints of ginger spice and quince blossom. The approachable and elegant palate shows excellent fruit purity and ample texture, with plenty of nectarine, mandarin and spice filling the palate.
"94 Points. Marsanne 41% Roussanne 34% Viognier 25%. Such fine balance between zip and gloss, flavor and restraint. Ripe lemon, ginger, green pear, honey florals. Light to medium-bodied, green pear and citrus, almond and ginger, a little chalky grip, with a juicy but tangy finish, a cinch of lemon zest bitterness. Lovely wine, and it seems that 2023 has delivered something extra in the coolness and energy departments. Tasted: Feb24 13% alc. $34 Screwcap Drink: 2024 - 2031+"- Gary Walsh, The Wine Front.
