Apsley Gorge Pinot Noir 2021
Apsley Gorge vineyard, located in the beautiful Apsley Valley near Bicheno, Tasmania, is renowned for its exceptional wines. Planted with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the 1990s, the vineyard has thrived under the guidance of Brian Franklin, a former Abalone diver and Lobster fisherman. The vineyard spans 7 hectares and emphasizes low yields and non-irrigation to maintain fruit stability and quality. Brian Franklin, mentored by Burgundy winemaker Phillipe Charlopin, took over winemaking responsibilities in the late 1990s. Apsley Gorge wines have gained recognition as a premier label, distributed across Australia and exported internationally. The winery sits in the breathtaking "The Gulch" in Bicheno, paying homage to Tasmania's fishing and agricultural heritage. With its unique location near Apsley Gorge national Park, the vineyard benefits from cooling breezes, resulting in a distinct micro-climate. Brian Franklin's extensive winemaking experience in France and Australia ensures Apsley Gorge wines achieve full phenolic ripeness, showcasing ripe fruit, finesse, and texture. These wines possess excellent natural acidity, striking a harmonious balance without heaviness. Apsley Gorge wines are produced naturally, with minimal new oak, yielding exceptional wines of class and structure.
Tasmanian Pinot Noir wine is celebrated for its exceptional quality and distinct character. The island's cool climate, pristine environment and unique terroir create the perfect conditions for cultivating this delicate and finicky grape variety. With its vibrant acidity, elegant structure and complex flavour profile, Tasmanian Pinot Noir offers an enchanting sensory experience. The wines often exhibit notes of red berries, cherries, earthy undertones and hints of spice, showcasing the region's mastery in producing wines of finesse. Tasmanian Pinot Noir has gained recognition on the global stage, earning a reputation as some of the finest examples of this varietal.
The colour is typical of Apsley Gorge showing those deep purple tones with the classic cherry rim. This wine is unfiltered and unfined so it doesn’t have the sparkle of the stars, but more the hues of the earth. The nose has varietal fruit beneath the slightly feral, mysterious, nuances of the wild yeast. French oak is there providing yet another layer of complexity. The pallet entry is rich and textured but also slightly restrained teasing you with what will follow. This wine is not a blockbuster, but leans more towards elegance and refined burgundy characters with the long finish. This is a structured wine reflecting the philosophy of AGV, the expression of terroir and vintage.
Nose - Aromatic, Mysterious, Forest Floor
Earthy, with nuances of wild yeast, plum, charcuterie, chocolate and liquorice aromas.
Palate - Earthy, Red Fruits, Textural
Luscious and smooth in the mouth, rich red fruits and chocolate tones, the wine is utter textural bliss.
Finish - Rich, Vibrant, Chocolatey
Dark chocolate notes are complemented by rich fruits which retain their essential pinot vibrancy to the last.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Pinot Noir
Country - Australia
Region - Tasmania
Vintage - 2021
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14.5%