I recall my early days of exploring wine, particularly my fondness for Australian sparkling wines like Seppelts Great Western. Now, Tasmania has emerged as the prime location for sparkling wines, and I recently discovered a wonderful option at a reasonable price.
Jansz Tasmania Premium Cuvée NV Tasmania, Australia
12% alcohol. This wine impresses with its quality. It features a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with an undisclosed yet notable time spent on lees. After being hand-harvested and whole-bunch pressed, it undergoes full malolactic fermentation. The wine displays a pale yellow hue and exudes aromas of ripe peach, yellow plum, and pear, complemented by subtle toastiness and a hint of nuts. On the palate, it offers a delightful acidity paired with fresh crystalline citrus alongside ripe peach notes and a fine spiciness. Everything is well-balanced: nothing dominates, and it maintains a luxurious, harmonious character. It’s a classy option that’s easy to enjoy while also revealing intriguing complexity. 92/100 (a fantastic value in the UK at around £18 from Waitrose, Hennings, ND John, Auswinesonline, Noble Green, Lekker Wines)