With one of the richest histories in Australian wine regions, the small island state of Tasmania is home to over 200 vineyards and over 90 cellar doors. For many wine drinkers, a bottle of Tasmanian Pinot Noir can be quite a recent discovery, but in fact the first vineyards in the region were first recorded almost 200 years ago in 1823. The first sparkling wines were produced soon after in 1826. Wine grapes were grown across the island during the 1800's, however it wasn't until the 1950's when commercial grape growing really caught on.
Pinot Noir was found to thrive in Tasmania's unique climate and vineyard plantings have slowly increased from the 47 hectares in 1986 to over 1,000 hectares today.
TASMANIAN PINOT NOIR
Pinot Noir is one of the most expensive and highly valued wines in the world, however it's notoriously difficult to grow, with vines only thriving in very specific climates around the world.The quality of Pinot Noir varies largely based on climate and one of these suitable climates is Tasmania – defined by one GI (geographical indication), Tasmania, there are actually seven sub-regions: Tamar Valley, Coal River Valley, Pipers River, Derwent Valley, Huon Valley, the North West and the East Coast.
Tasmania is influenced by a maritime climate, which usually means that the region experiences warm days and cool nights during the growing season. The ocean breeze moderates the temperature, allowing fruit to ripen slowly on the vines. This climate allows for the slow and steady ripening of tannins, whilst retaining natural acidity – a hallmark of high-quality Pinot Noir.Tasmania is now known as a pristine, cool climate wine region with a reputation for ultra-premium Pinot Noir
A "MAGICAL" PINOT NOIR FROM TASMANIA- Priory Ridge Pinot Noir 2020
Located in the small settlement of Priory, close to the tourist destinations of Binalong Bay and the Bay of Fires and just 3kms from the town of St Helens one of Tasmania’s premium holiday destinations on the sunny East Coast.
Priory Ridge is a boutique vineyard on 20 hectares with ideal north facing slopes which maximize sunlight. The soil is Devonian granite rich in mineral content, transferring a unique “terroir” to the wine. This Tasmanian Pinot Noir wine has a typical Burgundian nose; has plum and dark fruit flavors, balanced by velvety tannins and oak complexity; delivers textures & structure on the long persisting palate.Following 18 months in French Oak barrels this wine has been bottled without fining and only minimum filtration. The slight peppery/spicy finish adds to the character of the wine.
Drink now or cellar to improve with age in the bottle.
