Delta Blue (Red)

Unico Zelo

Langhorne Creek is one of (if not) the oldest flood-irrigated wine regions in the world. There have been agreements between landholders since the 50s about the use and direction of river flood water. The soils can take a full 40-50cm of flood water only to have it all soak in within 36 hours to replenish the subsoil and provide the grower with enough soils moisture to get the vines through the entire season without the need to take water from the Murray pipeline. It speaks to what Unico Zelo is all about: sustainable usage of water and celebrating unique soils. Hence the alluvial reference in the name Delta Blue. It's a reference to the soil, the blue fruited tint and nature of the wine, and also Brendan and Laura's love of the blues of another famous Delta, the mighty Mississippi.

The soils here have been formed from the mighty Murray River meeting the sea for thousands of years, which over time have formed a diverse range of alluvial clays that litter the region. Where we find the Old Mill Estate, is based on a thick bed of dense, red clay loam, where some stunning Touriga Nacional and Cabernet(s) are grown. The moderate climate, with a great deal of maritime influence, is as climatically suited to these varieties as it almost gets in Australia.

With that in mind, do not expect this to be a big old bold wine with a body like a semi-trailer - this is still a classic Unico Zelo wine with freshness, and that juicy core, but it's backed up by a lovely, subtle suede tannin. Big blueberry, raspberry, and blackcurrant vibes, with some cassia, bay leaf and cloven spice. A comforting, wintery wine that's as refreshing and approachable as always from Unico Zelo!