'Pearl' is Marcell’s new release rosé, made from single vineyard Shiraz, and inspired by the great gastronomic rosés of southern France. This is a wine made without the addition of any sulphur, and it is a textural, salty marvel. Fresh and yet complex, rich and yet bright, it is a rosé designed for the dinner table. Rhubarb and grapefruit, raspberry pip and brown spices. Thirst quenching and very good!

Marcell Kustos is the person behind one of the more exciting wine labels to come out of South Australia in recent years. Named Ludo Wines, the project is focussed on high quality vineyards from the McLaren Vale, but to be honest, it is as much about what happens in the winery as what happens in the vines. This is because, as well as being a leading sommelier, Marcell is something of a mad scientist/genius (our words, not his - shhh!) when it comes to food, wine and the science behind it. After obtaining a qualification in food engineering and winemaking operations, Marcell started his career as a food product developer before turning his hand to wine. He began working as a sommelier while undertaking a Master's degree in gastronomy. His curiosity for memorable wine experiences led to a PhD in food, wine and emotional pairing at the University of Adelaide in collaboration with Wine Australia and UC Davis. What a guy! And we have to say, what a collection of wines he is slowly producing. Worth checking out.