Resolution Vineyard 2020 Pinot Noir

You'll have to move smartly if you want to snap up one of the best-value pinot noirs in Tasmania. Fewer than 100 cases were made in 2020 with quality high, but yields low. There was no vintage in 2019 owing to smoke taint. Crafted by Alain Rousseau at Frogmore Creek, this is made from fruit grown on a boutique vineyard at Middleton in the far south of the d'Entrecasteaux Channel in the deepest south of the state. Newly-released, this is aromatic and youthful, on the lighter side of the pinot spectrum but indisputably varietal. I likened it to a ballerina; coquettish but with an inner core strength. Pair this with pizza, or even chill it a little in the dying days of summer. $28.  http://resolutionvineyard.com.au/      

Bream Creek 2019 Riesling

 

Fred Peacock and his team at Bream Creek on Tasmania's south-east coast rarely put a foot wrong, and often hold back new releases until they are perfectly poised. This rich, dryish riesling is a case in point. Inspired by the classic rieslings of Germany, this hits the sweet spot between residual sugar and smart acid. Citrus and apple flavours dance a palate tango and this would pair brilliantly with Asian dishes with a hint of spice, or simple grilled Tasmanian seafood. $31. www.breamcreekvineyard.com.au/

Dalrymple 2018 Pinot Noir

 

If you like your pinot noir with a bit of oomph you have come to the right place. Winemaker Pete Caldwell has sourced fruit from a range of different regions in Tasmania (Pipers River, the Coal River Valley, Swansea and Ouse) to produce this assertive wine, which demands to be enjoyed with food to be seen at its best. This is a complex wine with varietal character, weight, texture and flavours of dark plums, cherries and fruit cake. This would pair well with lamb chops and spicy aubergine. $38. www.dalrymplevineyards.com.au/