Pirie Late Disgorged 2011

No secret that Tasmania is making some of the world’s finest sparkling wines, second only to Champagne itself, and this is surely one of the best yet released. A stunner. For me, the best I have seen from our Southern State. Ownership and transfer of wine producers and vineyards in Tassie can sometimes seem like a fast-paced game of musical chairs. And somewhere – past, present or future – one will often find the fingerprints of Andrew Pirie. Even though this wine is labelled Pirie, and is one I’m sure of which he’d be very proud, it has been a decade since he was involved with his eponymous company. These days, it is all under the guidance of Brown Family Wine Group, who have made significant investments in Tasmania. 

This is a pale gold in colour. The nose is so appealing – nuts, brioche, peaches and cream, toast and apricot kernels. The palate is soft and complex, with a creamy texture. Notes of lemon curd and freshly baked lemon meringue pie emerge. Underneath, there is bright acidity. A sparkling wine of great length with the balance and intensity maintained the full length. One of the great Aussie sparklers. This will drink magnificently for many years.

Released first week of July 2022.