2016 Claypot Wines Taurian Friulano, Tamar Valley

Claypot Wines is the creation of Tasmanian wine pioneer Andrew Pirie, one of the figures most responsible for putting Tasmania on the fine wine map. His fascination with European varieties and cool climate viticulture has seen him champion grapes rarely encountered in Australia, often with remarkable results.

Taurian Friulano draws inspiration from the great white wines of Friuli in northeast Italy, yet finds a distinctly Tasmanian voice in the Tamar Valley. The region's cool nights and extended ripening season allow the variety to develop flavour intensity while preserving freshness and aromatic detail, producing wines of texture and finesse rather than sheer weight.

The colour has evolved to a pale golden straw with bright highlights. Aromas of ripe pear, yellow apple and preserved lemon mingle with notes of almond, fennel and wild herbs. The palate is wonderfully textural and savoury, carrying flavours of orchard fruits and citrus alongside the gentle nutty character that makes Friulano so distinctive. A subtle saline edge and fresh acidity bring energy and persistence to the finish.

Superb with grilled calamari, spaghetti alle vongole, roast chicken with fennel, white anchovies on toast or zucchini fritters with herbs and ricotta. Drinking beautifully now, with enough structure and freshness to continue evolving over the next three to five years.