De Bortoli Emeri’s Garden Pink Moscato 2023

Winery Background and History

De Bortoli Wines, established in 1928 by Italian immigrant Vittorio De Bortoli, is one of Australia’s most esteemed family-owned wineries. Located in the Riverina region of New South Wales, the winery has expanded its operations to include vineyards in Yarra Valley, King Valley, and Hunter Valley. The Emeri’s Garden range pays tribute to the family’s matriarch, Emeri De Bortoli, celebrating her elegance and vivacity through wines that are approachable, vibrant, and full of character.

Producer and Winemaker

De Bortoli Wines remains under the stewardship of the De Bortoli family, with Darren De Bortoli serving as Managing Director. The 2023 Emeri’s Garden Pink Moscato was crafted by Winemaker John Coughlan, who brings extensive experience and a passion for producing premium wines. Coughlan’s meticulous approach ensures that each vintage maintains its renowned quality and character.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes for the 2023 Emeri’s Garden Pink Moscato were sourced from various vineyards throughout the Riverina region. This area is characterized by a warm, Mediterranean climate with hot summers and cool winters, ideal for ripening Muscat and Shiraz grapes. The 2023 season experienced high rainfall during winter and flowering, leading to a 35% reduction in crop yield. However, a cooler than usual ripening period and no rain during spring and summer allowed the fruit to be picked at optimum ripeness, resulting in a wine with vibrant fruit flavors and balanced acidity. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The fruit was picked and pressed cold using state-of-the-art bag presses. The juice was left to settle naturally and then racked clean. Fermentation was conducted at low temperatures to retain fresh fruit characters. Fermentation was stopped once a balance was reached between alcohol, sweetness, acidity, and bubbles, resulting in a sweet, low-alcohol frizzante-style wine. 

Tasting notes

The 2023 Emeri’s Garden Pink Moscato presents a seductive pastel pink hue. The nose displays freshly crushed grapes with a hint of strawberries. On the palate, the wine is lively and fresh, featuring flavors of freshly crushed grapes and Pink Lady apples. The frizzante style imparts a gentle effervescence, enhancing the wine’s refreshing character and leading to a clean, crisp finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This sweet, light-bodied wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its vibrant fruit flavors and gentle effervescence complement spicy Asian cuisine, such as Thai green curry or Vietnamese spring rolls. It also pairs well with fresh fruit desserts, like strawberry shortcake or peach cobbler, and can be enjoyed alongside soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert. For a refreshing aperitif, serve it chilled on its own.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the wine’s fresh and fruity character, serve the 2023 Emeri’s Garden Pink Moscato well-chilled at a temperature between 6–8°C (43–46°F). Use white wine glasses to concentrate the aromas and direct the wine to the appropriate areas of the palate. No decanting is necessary; however, serving the wine immediately after opening will preserve its delicate effervescence.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2023 Emeri’s Garden Pink Moscato is crafted for immediate enjoyment but can be cellared for up to 2 years. To maintain its quality, store the wine in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature and humidity. Proper storage will preserve its fresh fruit character and gentle effervescence.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

• White Frontignac (Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains)

• Muscat Gordo Blanco (Muscat of Alexandria)

• Shiraz

  Exact percentages are not specified by the producer.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

8.0%