Wine
Bilgavia Estate 2012 Blanc de Blanc
Bilgavia Estate 2012 Blanc de Blanc
Region: Hunter Valley NSW | $30
This 100 per cent chardonnay sparkling comes from Broke Fordwich, which lies between the areas traditionally described as Lower Hunter and Upper Hunter.
While 2012 was generally a very trying vintage in the Hunter because of near-constant rain, there’s little sign of any problem in this case, most likely because the grapes were harvested well before — to crack a bad pun — the rot set in.
It shows the lovely nectarine characters so often associated with chardonnay-based sparklings and also the bready, buttery flavours that come from maturation on yeast lees (or residue).
The palate is firm enough to make an excellent aperitif but there’s also sufficient generosity to match lighter dishes such as smoked chicken salad.
Visit http://wine.bilgaviaestate.com.au
— JOHN ROZENTALS*
*John Rozentals is a Charles Sturt University Bachelor of Applied Science (Wine Science) graduate.
Samples for tasting and review should be addressed to John Rozentals, PO Box 3484, Rhodes 2138.