Tasmania 12.5% Cork $66 Source: Retail
I don’t have an image of this but you can find a nice picture over at Chris Plummer’s “Australian Wine Journal” site…not to mention a different perspective on the wine and that’s always refreshing.
The 2003 has the word ‘Grand’ added to its title, but to be honest, I’ve preferred the last two vintages. The main difference I see between Chris’ thoughts and mine are that I perceive this wine to be somewhat lacking the richness of those vintages. It is latently rich though, and I think it will get there in two or three years more time.
Five years tirage, an ultra fine bead and an extremely complex nose; Seashells, honeysuckle, brioche, mushrooms, hazelnuts, marzipan, and strawberry shortcake compose the intricate aromatic orchestration. It’s still pretty tightly coiled on the palate…once again, I’ll enjoy it more when it has time to unwind.
There is some chalky roughness on the back palate, nothing bad, but a touch distracting for mine and not totally what I want from an Australian Sparkling at this price point. The finish is long and minerally. I certainly respect this wine – I’m just not so sure I enjoyed drinking it as much as I thought I would.
Winery website- http://www.houseofarras.com.au/
Cheers for the complement re the pic JP!
As much as we have some differences of opinions in regards to the wine (I was actually hoping for something a bit tighter and finer!) I completely agree with your last line, and certainly preferred the 2001 over the 2003, but perhaps not the 2002
All of this brings to mind my perhaps unsettled view of the topic of aeration and sparkling white wines. Obviously, effervescence and tightness can disappear with aeration for these wines, but in their place can come a smoother, richer and more settled wine. I honestly can't recall how I went with the Arras. Any opinions/preferences on the issue JP?
p.s. I had an Aussie fizz I actually preferred to the 03 Arras at a tasting last night, the 2002 Late Disgorged Jansz – I thought it brilliant! Have you had it mate?
As always cheers,
Chris P
Aeration certianly helps a to an extent but time in the cellar is the only thing that really works for me personally.
2002 LD Jansz is a beauty, spot on CP. 05 Jansz is really good too IMO, but I have a fondness for 05 Tassie Sparkling. 05 Clover Hill Blanc de Blancs is totally my sort of wine
Just make sure you have some quality smoked salmon to enjoy it with!
cheers
j
Actually had the standard 05 Clover Hill at same tasting last night JP. I thought it good, a much fresher wine and a fine return to form for one of my favourite Aussie fizzers, but then came the late disgorged Jansz….strangely, my Jansz loving girlfriend actually preferred the 05 Clover Hill….
Will keep an eye out for the Clover Hill 05 Blanc de Blancs now mate, trust you mean Tassie smoked salmon?
Cheers,
Chris P