Bangor Vineyard 2022 Maria Rosé

Bangor Shed is one of Tasmania's most beguiling vineyard destinations - open seven days a week for lunch and tastings and offering superb views. It is only a 45-minute drive from Hobart and the vines are now over a decade old , producing some quality fruit. I tried two new 2022 releases this week, a pinot gris and this rosé, both of which shone. Made from 100% pinot noir, this was partially aged in barrel on lees, giving the wine a soft and creamy texture alongside its appealing red berry freshness. A versatile choice, this could be enjoyed on the deck after work, or with a wide range of food styles. We enjoyed it with a lightly spiced Massaman beef dish. $40. https://bangorshed.com.au/ 

Holm Oak 2022 Riesling

 

I found it really hard to decide whether to review this new release or the excellent 2021 Holm Oak Pinot Noir. In the end I opted for this because everyone knows about the quality of Tasmanian pinot noir but quality riesling from the island state remains far less well known. This is a stellar example of cool-climate riesling from husband and wife team Tim and Bec Duffy at Holm Oak in the Tamar Valley. Thank fresh floral aromas, bright, crunchy acidity and vibrant lemon/lime fruit notes with delightful minerality. A lovely food wine for only $30. www.holmoakvineyards.com.au/

Dr Edge 2021 Chardonnay

 

It is a foolish rookie error to leave it a few weeks before reviewing any Dr Edge wine release. Peter Dredge's wines have a cult following and this one is sold out - according to the website - although you may be lucky enough to find some in retail stores. Dredge is probably best known for pinot noir and riesling, but this blend of fruit from both ends of Tasmania soars and swirls with a palette of flavours and textures, while remaining resolutely varietal. Using Tamar and Derwent Valley fruit, it was pressed to old casks and then barrel fermented in there before being aged for nine months. This is a wonderfully athletic and energetic wine with citrus fruit, minerality and structure. Very impressive. $65. https://www.dr-edge.com/

Bream Creek 2021 Reserve Chardonnay

 

There are very few wine producers in Tasmania as versatile - or reliable - as Bream Creek. From sparkling wines to rieslings, pinot noirs to Bordeaux blends, everything Bream Creek produce is impressive and sensibly priced - a testament to Fred Peacock's viticultural expertise and deft winemaking from Liam McElhinney. This new release hits a lot of high notes for lovers of serious cool-climate chardonnays: it is very varietal and with terrific structure, so this can either be enjoyed in its youth - perhaps with some pan-fried flathead - or cellared over the short to medium term. $48. www.breamcreekvineyard.com