The 2023 Airlie Bank Gris on Skins is a vibrant Yarra Valley Pinot Gris that embraces skin-contact winemaking to create a wine full of texture, character and freshness. Made from Pinot Gris fermented using a combination of whole-bunch and skin-contact techniques, it displays aromas of strawberry, nashi pear and ripe stone fruit, alongside hints of ginger, spice and delicate floral notes. The result is a distinctive, lightly amber-hued wine that sits comfortably between a traditional white and a modern orange wine style.
On the palate, it is bright and textural, with flavours of pear, red berries and citrus supported by refreshing acidity and gentle phenolic grip from time spent on skins. The wine offers plenty of flavour without feeling heavy, finishing dry and savoury with subtle spice and a lingering mineral edge. Its balance of fruit, texture and freshness makes it particularly versatile at the table.
Ben's Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is a fantastic introduction to skin-contact wines for customers looking to explore something beyond traditional Pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris. Best enjoyed over the next 2–4 years. Pair with charcuterie, grilled seafood, pork dishes, Asian-inspired cuisine or antipasto, where the wine's texture and savoury finish really come into their own.
