Russell & Suitor Baila con Toro Pinot Chardonnay 2022
- 91
- $55
- Drink by: 2026-2030
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Tasmania has well and truly proved itself as our leading region for quality sparkling wines. Personally, and if the Poms decide to argue with you then just mention the Ashes, I think that only Champagne does it better. A gross generalisation of course, but there is legitimate argument to it. This vintage sees a split between the two varieties with 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Chardonnay. The colour is a deep gold and there is just the merest hint of pink to it, if one looks closely. A fresh style with lovely oystershell notes, hints of sea breezes, citrus and a touch of wild strawberries, there is also a whiff of hazelnuts lingering on the finish. A wine of medium length and soft texture, this can be enjoyed anytime over the next two to four years, longer if you have the patience and a good cellar.
Ken was born and bred in Brisbane, Queensland. He had a non-trendy, perfectly happy childhood, in a family convinced alcohol meant instant condemnation to Hades. But a break fishing on the Great Barrier Reef, and some good wine, started a serious obsession that eventually took over. It did not stop Ken being chastised later for drinking Pol champagne, disgusted he’d drink anything made by a Cambodian dictator. Now, Ken mostly writes on wine, champagne and spirits for various newspapers, magazines and books, but is perhaps best known for his work in The Courier Mail. He also has a little sideline writing on cigars, fishing, travel and food. When not writing, fly-fishing for trout in NZ or bonefish on the flats of Cuba, travelling or smoking cigars, he is no doubt following a variety of sporting teams – the occasionally glorious Queensland Reds rugby, the dysfunctional Washington Redskins, the dodgy Arsenal and especially revels in the world restored to its proper axis with the return of the Ashes to their rightful home.
