BACKGROUND

We planted our single vineyard of Montepulciano in 2010, experimenting with a variety that thrives in the heat, needing little water to produce great quality fruit. Watching this young vineyard mature, our 3^rd generation winemaker Peter Collett realised how much this high yielding, late ripening grape variety suits the McLaren Vale Mediterranean climate. He then decided that rather than creating our traditional full-bodied style of wine, we’d scale back the fullness and allow for a lighter expression of fruit and varietal character. Our Next Gen Montepulciano marks a new generation of both winemaking and grape growing at Woodstock Wines.

WINEMAKING

Montepulciano is usually the last variety to be picked, and 2024 was no exception. Consistent warm sunny days allowed steady ripening of our Montepulciano fruit, we harvested the grapes with bright purple character and natural acidity in mind. This wine spent 7 days on skins before pressing and maturation. This vintage we used a combination of stainless steel and oak finding that tank maturation keeps this style clean and vibrant, while the oak portion softens tannins and provides flavour complexity. Minimal fining and filtration were used, and the wine was bottled young to retain freshness.

TASTING NOTE

Bright crimson in colour, this young and savoury style of Montepulciano exhibits aromatics of purple fruit with a subtle menthol-like herbaceous character. The palate displays brightness with confectionery red fruit, complex spicy notes, and crunchy tannins. Drink this wine young, with snacks and your best pals!

FROM THE WINEMAKER

'The 2024 vintage produced a leaner, more structured Montepulciano. I chose to pick a bit earlier this year, focusing on preserving natural acidity and crunchy tannins, with the goal of creating a food-friendly, savoury wine. This wine delivers a delicious balance of freshness and structure, the perfect tapas wine.' - Peter Collett

Vegan Friendly

Vineyard

Established: 2010
Size: 0.93ha
Aspect: Hilltop
Soil: Deep sand over clay loam
Elevation: 123m

REVIEWS

91 points The Vintage Journal 2026 SA Wine Guide
“First planted at Woodstock in 2010, this is third-generation winemaker Peter Collett’s realisation. The zero oak handling shows off. It’s crunchy on the palate and full of vigour. Soft tannins fade to a clean finish. A slight chill would work in the warmer months.”

Silver Medal 2026 McLaren Vale Wine Show

Next Gen Montepulciano 2024