Tarrango is a grape with a wonderfully peculiar pedigree — a deliberate creation of CSIRO scientists in 1972, bred to thrive in the blistering heat of inland Australia. By crossing the noble Touriga with the humble Sultana, they engineered a variety that keeps “champagne-level” acidity even as temperatures climb to 38°C in the shade. Rescued from obscurity in Swan Hill by Laura and Brendan Carter, Tarrango has been reimagined as the perfect “beach cricket” red.
Grown on ancient sandy limestone soils and treated with a light, respectful winemaking hand, the fruit is harvested early and bottled fresh at a restrained 11.5% alcohol to preserve its bright, primary energy. This isn’t a wine for the cellar — it belongs in an ice bucket on a scorching afternoon.
In the glass it’s all vivid sour cherry, watermelon and pink grapefruit, lifted by a bright citrus zing that keeps it impossibly light on its feet and dangerously quaffable. Another intriguing, thought-provoking release from Unico Zelo, and — true to form — exceptional value for money.
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