From: Adelaide Hills, Australia
Blend: Merlot, Økar Island bitter, mountain yuzu, riberry, wild thyme, native currants
Tasting Notes: Laura and Brendan’s take on sweet vermouth is made from Adelaide Hills Merlot and yuzu fruit, which is “the most amazing little Asiatic citrus [they’ve] encountered,” along with a smattering of herbs and spices (including Økar Island bitter, mountain yuzu, riberry, wild thyme, and native currants). Hints of balsamic are balanced by notes of tart red fruits, zesty citrus peel, mint, and and hints of bitter herbs at the finish. Try it over ice as an aperitif.
Cocktail recommendations from Unico Zelo:
The Red Right Hand
30ml Unico Yuzu
60ml Australian Brandy
30ml Red Bitter Liqueur
5ml Coffee Liqueur
Stir ingredients with ice. Strain & serve in a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with orange peel.
The Natty-cano
45ml Unico Yuzu
120ml Pet Nat
15ml Red Bitter Liqueur
Add ingredients to a tall glass. Fill with ice. Enjoy.
Ultimate Spritz
45ml Unico Yuzu
15ml Marionette Cassis
60ml Soda
Combine Unico X Marionette in a highball glass & top with soda. Garnish with a lemon wedge.
Opal Miner
30ml Unico Yuzu
30ml Australian Gin
30ml Green Chartreuse
Stir all ingredients together over ice and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange twist.
About. Unico Zelo Wines, based in Australia, is a young and innovative winery founded by Brendan and Laura Carter. Their journey began in 2012, driven by a passion for creating wines that express the unique terroir of Australian vineyards and highlight lesser-known grape varieties that thrive in the country's diverse climate.
The founders, both with a background in viticulture and winemaking, were inspired by their travels and experiences in the wine industry. They were particularly influenced by the potential they saw in Australia for producing high-quality wines from varieties less commonly grown there, like Fiano and Nero d’Avola. Their approach combines traditional winemaking techniques with a modern, sustainable ethos.
Unico Zelo’s philosophy revolves around sustainability, community, and innovation. They are committed to minimal intervention winemaking, using natural fermentation processes, and avoiding additives. Their wines are often unfiltered and unfined, allowing the true character of the grapes and the land to shine through.
The Carters aim to create wines that truly reflect the Australian landscape. They choose grape varieties well-suited to the local climate and soil, ensuring their wines are distinctive and environmentally sustainable. This focus on terroir-driven wines helps promote the unique characteristics of Australian wine regions and instills a sense of pride and appreciation for the local terroir in every wine enthusiast.
Brendan and Laura are also dedicated to educating consumers and fostering a strong community around their wines. They regularly engage with their audience through tastings, events, and social media, sharing their knowledge and passion for wine. This active involvement of the audience is a key part of their mission, making everyone feel a part of the Unico Zelo family.
Unico Zelo sources grapes from various regions, focusing significantly on the Adelaide Hills and Riverland. These regions offer diverse climates and soils ideal for growing the varieties they specialize in.
