Delinquente Wine Co: Redefining Riverland Wines with Italian Heritage and Organic Practices

In the heart of South Australia’s Riverland, Delinquente Wine Co is revolutionizing the wine scene by blending the rich heritage of Southern Italian grape varieties with sustainable, minimal-intervention winemaking. Founded by Con-Greg Grigoriou, a native of The Riverland, the company reflects his passion for creating wines that are both authentic to their origins and a joy to drink.

Delinquente Wine Company

The Philosophy: Drinkability Meets Sustainability

Delinquente’s ethos is rooted in simplicity and respect—both for the land and for the craft of winemaking. The grapes are sourced from two organically farmed vineyards in The Riverland, an area traditionally known for large-scale production. However, Delinquente takes a more intimate, small-batch approach, allowing each bottle to tell a unique story.

Key to their philosophy is the selection of Southern Italian grape varieties, including Vermentino and Nero d’Avola. These varieties are naturally well-suited to The Riverland’s hot and arid climate, requiring less water and showing greater resilience to heat compared to traditional Burgundy and Bordeaux varieties. This not only reduces the environmental impact but also highlights the untapped potential of the region’s terroir.

“We pick early for low alcohols and high natural acidity, focusing on clean, fresh fruit characters,” says Grigoriou. “The goal is to create wines that are true to me, true to the region, and true to the fruit.”

The Process: Wild Yeasts and Minimal Intervention

Delinquente’s wines are crafted using wild yeast fermentation, a process that relies on the natural microorganisms present on the grape skins. This approach enhances the individuality of each wine, allowing the grapes and the terroir to express themselves fully. By avoiding unnecessary additives and interventions, Grigoriou ensures that each wine remains pure and unadulterated, offering an honest reflection of The Riverland’s potential.

Wines to Celebrate

The range of wines at Delinquente reflects both the diversity of Southern Italian grape varieties and Grigoriou’s commitment to creating something special for every palate. From crisp, vibrant Vermentino to juicy, approachable Nero d’Avola, each bottle embodies the balance of drinkability and character.

A New Chapter for The Riverland

For Grigoriou, Delinquente is more than just a wine label—it’s a love letter to The Riverland. “I grew up here, and I want to make wines that shine, that the region can be proud of,” he says. By focusing on sustainability and innovation, Delinquente is proving that The Riverland is capable of producing wines that rival the world’s best.

Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a casual wine enthusiast, Delinquente Wine Co offers an invitation to discover the flavors of The Riverland in a whole new light.

Visit Delinquente Wine Co to learn more, or reach out to Con-Greg Grigoriou at congreg@australianwinecompany.com.