Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot 2005

The wine style was developed with Harold Osborne, formerly of Schramsberg and Pelorus. Harold supervises production in Margaret River. The fruit is hand-picked at 19 Brix. The blend is 80% chardonnay, 20% pinot. The base wine was made at Pierro winery, using whole bunch pressing. The primary fermentation is completed in the barrel. The wine lays on French oak for six months before triage and secondary fermentation using selected yeasts. The wine is in lees contact for two years before riddling and disgorgement. On the nose, there are fresh fruit and some nutty bready characters. On the palate,the chardonnay imparts a rich toastymouth filling creaminess and the pinot provides an austere balance. The oak treatment, unusual for a sparkling wine, adds complexity and depth. A rich but fresh style of sparkling wine with a satisfying elegance and mouth feel. REVIEWS & AWARDS "One of the better West Australian sparklers I have tasted" Ray Jordan's Wine Guide 2006-07. "Wonderful Bubble" Bruce Stephen, Vancouver Lifestyle Magazine, May 2007. Silver medal Qantas Wine Show 2006. "Fine, elegant and balnced; good mousse, gentle citrus and nectarine. Fruit: fine acidity and length. Rating 90/100. James Halliday.