2023 John Duval Plexus Marsanne Roussanne Viognier

John Duval might be best known for his reds, but this white blend deserves just as much attention. It’s the only white in the range, and clearly not an afterthought - just a different expression of the Barossa, built from Marsanne, Roussanne and Viognier grown in some pretty special spots across Marananga, Kalimna and Eden Valley.

2023 was a cooler, slower season which let the fruit ripen gently, bringing freshness and good natural acidity. The wine is textural and layered like you'd expect from this style, but it doesn’t feel heavy. A small portion was fermented and aged in oak to build mouthfeel, but the rest stayed in tank on lees to keep things crisp and bright. It’s got plenty going on, but it all feels calm and well put together - nothing overdone.

It’s a great example of what a thoughtful white blend can look like from the Barossa, and proof that the Duvals know how to handle more than just red grapes.

94 points
"Such fine balance between zip and gloss, flavor and restraint… green pear and citrus, almond and ginger, a little chalky grip… Lovely wine, and it seems that 2023 has delivered something extra."
- Gary Walsh (The Wine Front)

93 points
"Fresh and vibrant aromas of Meyer lemons, orange blossoms and beeswax… Asian pears, peaches, baking spices and lanolin… Wonderfully integrated and generous."
- Ryan Montgomery (James Suckling)