2024 Marathon Downs 'Shepherds Delight' Orange Field Blend
From Marathon Downs, (Marlborough's Jess Barnes and Nick Pett) this is a charming, sunny orange field-blend of Pinot Gris, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.
Named so - “Pink at night, Shepherds Delight” - as a nod to both the soft pink blush of this wine, and the glowing sunsets that regularly grace their working family farm.
Stylistically, this is about as approachable as skin-contact wine gets - it's aromatic and quite racy, with fresh and candied fruit and a touch of spice. Tannins are present, but in a supporting role - providing just enough structure and additional complexity to make this a smart wine that's a lot of fun to drink, too.
Tasting Notes:
Coral in hue, the nose is immediate with tropical fruit, cordial, soft jubes and golden peach. The palate is delicate and lively, with more tropical and stonefruit, underscored with a touch of spice and musk, reminiscent of pink lemonade. The finish is refreshing, acid-driven, and moreish.
Winemaking:
Harvest stretched over six days, each pick destemmed upon arrival and co‑fermented with gentle handling. With just 15 days on skins, the method relied on tender "love pats" rather than heavy punch‑downs. The wine was basket‑pressed and rested in neutral oak for six months, then bottled unfined and unfiltered. Minimal sulfur added at bottling.
Blend Composition:
Pinot Gris 60%, Riesling 25%, Sauvignon Blanc 12%, Pinot Noir 3%
Details:
Vintage: 2024
ABV: 12.5%
Region: Marlborough
Vegans: Suitable for vegans
Allergens: Contains low sulphites
