Domaine A 2018 Lady A Sauvignon Blanc

 

And now for something completely different. This Coal River Valley sauvignon blanc does not taste like any other savvv b that you've sampled. For a start, it is released at three years of age, and it is more savoury than fruity. Originally made as a tribute to the white wines of Bordeaux, this is a serious white wine, so serious that it probably deserves a philosophy degree. In the olden days it would have been labelled fumé blanc because it sees a fair whack of new French oak. It's made from fruit grown on a single hectare black at the Stoney Vineyard with 30-year-old vines. It is tight, taut, textural and just a little funky. It deserves to be enjoyed with food; particularly poultry dishes. $66. https://domaine-a.com.au/

Josef Chromy 2019 Block 103 Pinot Noir

 

Tasmanians are spoilt for choice when it comes to high-quality pinot noirs but this limited-edition release is a serious head turner. Impeccably balanced, it is among the finest pinots the state has produced, and is worth every cent of the apparently hefty price tag. Unfined, unfiltered and bursting with quality fruit - sourced from one of the best blocks on Chromy's Relbia estate - and subdued oak, this is still very youthful with dark berry and cherry notes and poised spice characters. Long, textural and hugely impressive in its completeness. 96 points from me. $120. www.josefchromy.com.au 

Kate Hill 2018 Shiraz

  

To discover a Tasmanian shiraz is unusual; to discover an outstanding one is even rarer. Thanks to a warm ripening season in the Coal River Valley, from where the fruit was sourced, here we have a medium-bodied shiraz with plenty of flavour. There[s a melange of red berry fruits to the fore, subtle French oak and a lovely, long structure. It finishes soft and smooth with enough weight to match with wintery red meat dishes. I sometimes work at Kate's cellar door and may be biased,  but I know a good wine when I see one - and this hits the spot. Grab a bottle before it sells out. $50. www.katehillwines.com.au/    

Henskens Rankin 2014 Blanc de Blanc

 

Frieda Henskens and David Rankin hand-craft tiny parcels of Tasmanian fruit into outstanding sparkling wines that are full of personality. You'll pay handsomely for the privilege, but the wines really are something special. This Kiwi-Australian team started out in Tasmania just a decade ago and this 100% chardonnay has spent several years on lees building intensity and complexity. The key for me, though, is is freshness and vibrancy. The fruit is sourced from a sustainably-minded grower at Stringybark in the north of the state. Think stone fruit, brioche, bright acid and immense and immediate palate appeal. $110. 95 points from me. https://henskensrankin.com/