The 2025 The Pawn El Desperado Pinot Grigio is a fresh, textured South Australian white, crafted by winemaker Tom Keelan with an emphasis on flavour, individuality and food compatibility. The Pawn began in 2002, when Tom and Rebecca Willson set out to demonstrate the potential of small parcels of fruit from the Adelaide Hills and Langhorne Creek. The El Desperado label followed in 2011, emerging from a challenging wet vintage that encouraged a different approach. Today, this Pinot Grigio continues that independent spirit, combining bright fruit with thoughtful winemaking and enough palate weight to make it a versatile companion at the table.
The 2025 offers Nashi pear, white peach, honeydew melon and lemon sherbet, accompanied by citrus blossom, delicate flowers and a hint of sea spray. Its smooth, gently rounded texture is balanced by natural acidity and a clean, crisp finish. A distinctive feature of the winemaking is a small wild-fermented barrel component, blended into the main stainless-steel parcel to contribute complexity and texture. The exceptionally early 2025 harvest was completed by 6 February, around four weeks ahead of the producer’s usual timing. Bottled without fining agents and with minimal sulphur additions, this vegan-friendly Pinot Grigio delivers an appealing balance of juicy fruit, freshness and substance.
