The 2023 Quealy Turbul Moscato Giallo is one of the most exotic and compelling skin-contact wines coming out of Australia, showcasing Quealy’s deep connection to the amber wine traditions of Friuli in Northeast Italy. Produced from organically farmed Moscato Giallo grown at the Balnarring home vineyard, the wine underwent extended skin fermentation with indigenous yeasts before spending close to two years in seasoned oak hogsheads. Bottled unfined and unfiltered with minimal sulphur, it is a richly textured and highly aromatic expression of this ancient variety. The nose is intensely perfumed and explosive, revealing lychee, rose water and Turkish delight layered with orange blossom, lavender and dried summer flowers. There is a striking grapey lift typical of Moscato Giallo, alongside preserved citrus, spice and subtle savoury complexity that gives the wine both flamboyance and depth.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with a richly textured, mouthcoating feel balanced by fine phenolic grip and vibrant natural acidity. Flavours of dried apricot, citrus peel, tropical fruit and spice are supported by a gently salty mineral line and talc-like tannins from extended skin contact. Despite its aromatic intensity and texture, the wine remains remarkably energetic and dry, finishing long, tangy and savoury with impressive persistence.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the most exciting and distinctive amber wines in Australia — sitting somewhere between a skin-contact Moscato, Friulian orange wine and a highly aromatic Mediterranean white. Compared to sweeter Moscato styles, Turbul is completely dry, deeply savoury and far more complex, while still retaining its intoxicating floral and grapey perfume. It’s a wine that constantly evolves in the glass and over several days after opening, making it both fascinating and highly food-friendly. Best served slightly chilled rather than cold, and ideally with some air. Enjoy now or cellar through 2034+ as it develops further honeyed, nutty and oxidative complexity. Excellent with spicy dishes, washed-rind cheeses, roast pork, Middle Eastern cuisine or richly savoury seafood dishes.
