Unico Zelo Esoterico, Adelaide Hills, Australia

A compelling amber-hued wine with a Bohemian spirit, the 2022 Esoterico is a vibrant skin-contact white blend bursting with energy and character. This cult favorite from Unico Zelo invites adventurous drinkers into a world of bold aromatics, lively acidity, and tactile tannins.

Product Details

• Vintage: 2022
• Region: Adelaide Hills and Riverland / Clare Valley, South Australia
• Blend: Zibibbo (Muscat of Alexandria), Gewürztraminer, Moscato Giallo, Greco, Fiano
• Alcohol: 11.5% ABV
• Vinification: Fermented on skins for two weeks; matured for about one year in large 3,000 L casks
• Other Notes: Unfined, unfiltered, minimal sulfur at bottling

Sensory Description
The nose offers electrifying aromas of mandarin peel, rosehip, honeycomb, candied citrus, fresh ginger, and spicy florals. On the palate, this medium-bodied, zesty orange wine reveals mouthwatering acidity, pronounced tannins, and botanical complexity. Flavors dance between apricot, tangerine pith, white tea, and subtle honeyed spice, finishing bone-dry with a white pepper snap and vivid clarity.

Awards

• Wine Enthusiast: 94 points
• Decanter: 92 points
• Wine Advocate: 91 points

Winemaker’s Background
Unico Zelo was founded in 2012 by Brendan and Laura Carter, a husband-and-wife team whose vision is deeply rooted in sustainability and Italian-inspired varietal expression. Based in the Adelaide Hills, the winery emphasizes the use of native yeasts, minimal intervention, and fruit sourced from arid regions like Riverland and Clare Valley—sites chosen for their ancient, water-retentive soils and climate resilience. Their wines are celebrated for being both expressive and environmentally conscious, merging creative flair with a grounded agricultural ethos.

Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled to 50–54 °F to highlight its bright aromatics and zesty structure. Perfect with spicy, fermented, or herb-laced dishes such as kimchi fried rice, cedar-plank salmon with mango salsa, or aged cheeses with umami-rich accompaniments. Its gripping tannins and layered flavors make it a standout companion for adventurous cuisine.