Clover Hill Sparkling 2006

Clover Hill is the culmination of an ideal; the quest to produce a sparkling wine from the New World in the French tradition. The 66 hectare Clover Hill property located in the Pipers River region was selected after an exhaustive search for an optimal cool climate vineyard site. It is set on a ridge with views north over Bass Strait in one of the most spectacular parts of the country. The hard work has paid off however and succeeded in further enhancing Taltarni's reputation as one of Australia's top producer of sparkling wines.

The Clover Hill sparkling features the classic Champagne blend - chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot Gris (a variety allowed by law to be used in Champagne, but not often acknowledged) . The vines are close-spaced (1.1 metres apart with 1.9 metres between rows) and planted on well-drained deep, red volcanic soils in a natural frost-free amphitheater, orientated north-south to maximize sun exposure. Ironstone rocks act as heat reservoirs and assist grape ripening. The vineyard design draws substantially on traditional European methods and specialised equipment is used in its management.

The 2005 vintage shows a persistent fine bead and generous mousse. The complex bouquet displays layers of guava, white peach and almond biscuit. The palate has great structured length, bright acids and superb balance. Enjoy this wine with fresh Tasmanian produce.

Cellaring; Drinking now and over the next 5 years..

Food Match; Tropical Fruit Salad, Scallop Ceviche, Tasmanian Oysters, Strawberries, Steamed Chinese Cabbage and Pork Rolls or the classic bite sized accompaniment a gruyere quiche.

Armadale Cellars Price: $39.99 per bottle.

Call (03) 9509 3055 to order.