Delinquente Wine Co: Riverland's Fresh Take on Southern Italian Grapes

Delinquente Wine Co. is a vibrant and pioneering natural wine producer based in the Riverland region of South Australia. Founded in 2013 by Con-Greg Grigoriou, Delinquente is a passionate effort to redefine perceptions of the Riverland, showcasing its potential for producing exciting, fresh, and "smashable" wines from grape varieties perfectly suited to its warm, dry climate. The name "Delinquente" (Italian for "delinquent") reflects Con-Greg's desire to challenge norms and do things his own way.

The Riverland, often known for bulk wine production, is given a new identity by Delinquente's focus on Southern Italian grape varieties. Con-Greg works exclusively with organically grown, single-vineyard fruit, primarily from the Sherwood Estate in Loxton North. These varieties, such as Vermentino, Montepulciano, Nero d'Avola, Bianco d'Alessano, Fiano, and Negroamaro, are naturally drought-resistant, late-ripening, and retain natural acidity, making them ideal for the Riverland's climate. His commitment to sustainable viticulture includes dry farming where possible, minimizing water use, and treating the vines and soil with respect.

In the winery, Delinquente's approach is firmly rooted in minimal intervention. Wines are made in small batches with wild, open fermentations using indigenous yeasts. The philosophy is to let the fruit speak for itself, resulting in wines with no added fining or filtration, and with minimal to no added sulfur dioxide (many cuvées have very low or no added sulfur). Con-Greg aims for wines that are not only delicious and easy to drink but also express the unique "red dirt" and sun-drenched terroir of the Riverland. Their distinctive, playful, and often hand-drawn labels are a collaboration with artist Jason Koen (AKA "Ankles"), further emphasizing the brand's unique and rebellious spirit. They produce a range of bright whites, juicy reds (often lightly chilled), and their hugely popular Pét-Nats.

Delinquente Wine Co. wines are celebrated for their vibrant fruit, freshness, drinkability, and a subtle underlying complexity. They offer an exciting and accessible entry point into the world of Australian natural wines, proving that great wine can come from unexpected places.