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Savagnin is a rare and distinctive white variety, best known as the signature grape of Jura in France - but on the Mornington Peninsula, it has found a surprising new home. Originally planted at Montalto as Albariño, DNA testing later revealed the true identity of the vines: Savagnin, seemingly sourced from Spanish cuttings. Since then, our winemaking team has crafted a style that captures both the grape’s mysterious heritage and the cool-climate freshness of Red Hill South.
Montalto Savagnin is bright, textural and layered:
· Fruit spectrum - citrus (lemon, mandarin), white florals, stone fruit.
· Mineral & savoury detail - slate, wet stone, sea spray, pepper twist.
· Texture - rich fruit weight balanced by refreshing acidity, delivering structure and length.
The result is a wine that is both refreshing and complex, offering a distinctive alternative to better-known white varieties.
Montalto Savagnin 2024
From a single acre of vines planted in red clay soils in Red Hill South. Bright citrus and floral aromas combine with stone fruit, slate, sea spray and pepper spice. The palate balances richness and fruit weight with texture and rounded acidity, producing a wine that is at once refreshing and richly satisfying.
Though little planted in Australia, Montalto Savagnin has attracted attention for its rarity, origin story and quality. Its combination of freshness, minerality and savoury nuance has made it a distinctive addition to the Peninsula’s white wine landscape.
Montalto Savagnin pairs beautifully with:
· Fresh seafood - oysters, prawns, scallops.
· Light Mediterranean dishes with lemon, fennel or herbs.
· Soft cheeses and charcuterie with a savoury edge.
Serve at 9 - 11°C to highlight both fruit vibrancy and textural complexity.
Explore the mystery of Savagnin at the Montalto Cellar Door (open daily, 11am - 5pm), where you can taste the 2024 release alongside our other estate-grown wines. Extend your day on the estate:
The Restaurant at Montalto - seasonal set menus by Head Chef Adam Johnston, designed to showcase our heirloom produce paired with wines like Savagnin.
The Piazza at Montalto - relaxed dining overlooking the vines, perfect for a leisurely lunch.
What is Savagnin?
Savagnin is a white grape variety best known in France’s Jura region. At Montalto, it was originally planted as Albariño before DNA testing revealed its true identity.
What does Montalto Savagnin taste like?
Expect bright citrus and floral aromas with stone fruit, slate minerality, sea spray and a twist of pepper. The palate is rich yet refreshing, with balanced acidity.
Why is Savagnin rare in Australia?
Savagnin is planted only in small amounts across Australia due to its mistaken importation as Albariño. Montalto’s planting at Red Hill South is one of the few on the Mornington Peninsula.
Is Montalto Savagnin dry or sweet?
Montalto Savagnin 2024 is a dry style, balancing fruit weight and minerality with refreshing acidity.
What food pairs best with Savagnin?
Seafood, Mediterranean-inspired dishes and soft cheeses pair beautifully with Savagnin’s citrus, mineral and savoury profile.
