By Christine Salins.
Tasmania has developed a formidable reputation for sparkling wine in recent years. Although a small region producing a tiny amount by world standards, the finesse and quality of its sparkling wine has not gone unnoticed globally.
The cool climate of 41-42 degrees south produces a pristine freshness and elegance, crafted into shape by dedicated winemakers, many of whom pay the same attention to detail as makers of the finest Champagne.
One of the original Tasmanian producers and one of the most esteemed, Pirie makes its bubbles in the traditional method with grapes from the Tamar Ridge vineyard in northern Tasmania. Vintages are few and far between, produced only in very strong years.
Pirie’s non-vintage sparkling wine is Australia’s most awarded NV sparkling. Now it has released a rare and exquisite cuvée of exceptional complexity and depth.
Pirie Late Disgorged 2011 is the first late disgorged cuvée from the brand, today owned by Brown Brothers. Remarkably, the wine spent 10 years on lees.
The 2011 Tasmanian vintage was notable for being bitterly cold and not at all helpful for late-ripening grapes. Fortunately, the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in this blend had been picked before the weather turned.
Spotting something special in the wine that made him think it would last a decade, winemaker Tom Wallace put away 3,000 bottles. We’re now reaping the results of his foresight.
Pirie Late Disgorged is the highest quality wine in the brand’s sparkling portfolio. A younger version of the 2011 was released as Pirie’s second-tier vintage sparkling in 2016.
Wallace says the Late Disgorged showcases just how good sparkling wine from Tasmania can be. It highlights what Pirie is capable of making and what it wants to achieve, he says.
“There is an immediate brightness and freshness of colour when you pour (it) into a glass,” says Wallace. “You drink it in with your eyes as the pale lemon colour fills the glass and fine bubbles rise to the top. The taste has flavours of lemon and creamy mousse that invites you to keep tasting more.”
The wine comes in a premium gift box for special occasion gifting or a collector’s item. www.tamarridge.com.au
Pirie Late Disgorged 2011, $145: At this price the cork is only going to be popped if it’s a momentous occasion or if you’re giving it to your very best buddy. The expectation is great, with aromas of brioche and freshly baked bread enticing you to leap in and enjoy its silky texture and abundant cashew, peach and nectarine notes. Bright citrus acidity kicks in for a long and happy finish.
