Taltarni Blanc de Blancs 2016

Personally, whenever I think of Taltarni, I think of high-class cool-climate reds. It would seem that I have been somewhat limited in that thinking. Sparklings, sure, but that is Clover Hill. Taltarni have a collection of discrete fizz, aside from the link to Clover Hill, and they are a surprisingly impressive collection offering terrific value (I only say ‘surprising’, because I had neglected them somewhat, which is on me). The wines are made in the méthode-traditionnelle manner from cool-climate fruit. Serious value at $26 each, less if you are a Taltarni member. 

This 2016 Blanc de Blancs is a great place to start exploring this collection. Fruit is sourced from the Pyrenees, Adelaide Hills, Tasmania and the immediate impression is a sparkler of depth and creaminess. A creamy texture and flavours of crème brulee mixed with stonefruit; peaches mixed with a hint of fresh pear. Quite a vibrant style – the acidity is a bit like biting into that fresh green apple – with a cleansing finish and decent length. Supple, attractive and thoroughly enjoyable and a worthy successor to the extremely successful 2015, winner of much fizz bling.