Sinapius 2019 Close-Planted Chardonnay

Sinapius is one of the boutique gems of the wine industry in Tasmania, producing high-quality, innovative wines in tiny quantities. This is a very impressive cool-climate chardonnay - 100% estate grown at Pipers River and using nine different clones. Whole-bunch pressed and wild yeast fermented, this underwent full malo, spent 12 months in French oak and was unfined and unfiltered. This is a serious wine, demanding contemplation (or a Jason Isbell song). Rich but elegant on the palate with white pear and grapefruit notes and pebbly minerality, Really lovely. Only 7291 bottles were produced so move quickly. $57. https://sinapius.com.au/

Bream Creek 2021 Pinot Rosé

 

You know those warm days when you need something cool, lively and refreshing to sip on. Here's the answer: a new-release rosé made by Bream Creek from grapes grown by label owner Fred Peacock on the south-east coast of Tasmania. Made from 100% pinot noir, this is like drinking liquid strawberries and cream but finishes crisp and dry: a wine that offers both summer drinkability and food-friendliness. Pair this with a Lebanese mezze plate and also check out the equally refreshing 2021 Pinot Grigio. $31. www.breamcreekvineyard.com.au/

Handpicked 2020 Trial Batch Riesling

 

There is increasing interest in rieslings from Tasmania with uber negociant Handpicked Wines the latest on the bandwagon with a impressive debut release using fruit from Native Point at Swan Bay in the Tamar Valley. Winemaker Pete Dillon has captured the essence of Tassie riesling with a limited release available at Handpicked’s cellar doors in Sydney and Melbourne and online. This is very flavoursome, with excellent acidity and citrus peel flavours. The fruit was whole-bunch pressed into a large concrete egg and then naturally fermented over three weeks. Bright, dry and slatey, with just a hint of fruit sweetness, this is a beauty if you can lay your hands on some. Pair with Thai chicken and cashew stir-fry. $29. www.handpickedwines.com.au/

Roslyn 1823 2020 Pinot Noir

 

f you enjoy your pinot noir juicy and fruity with plenty of youthful vibrancy then you've come to the right place. Roslyn 1823 is a new producer in a very old homestead at Campania in the Coal River Valley, part of a permaculture farm operation, that has its wines made at nearby Drew Wines. Best known for its Iced Riesling, but this is another standout from the Palmer family operation. I loved the bright red fruits and food friendliness here, while French oak plays a small but important support role. Order by the dozen from the website, or look out for them at Salamanca Market. $40. www.roslyn-1823.com/