2017 Printhie Sparkling Brut, Orange

The Orange region has tremendous potential for sparkling wine due to its high elevation, cool climate and fantastic resource of chardonnay. The region has many similar climatic traits as Tasmania which is well recognised for its sparkling wine. This wine, being 100% chardonnay, has very clear citrus flavours and some complex apple and yeast derived nougat. There is a lively, fine bubble and a very approachable acid/dosage balance, inviting another taste.

Sourced from a single vineyard block of chardonnay ideally suited to sparkling wine as it is at 900m above sea level and faces east, so has a naturally cool meso-climate. The grapes were quickly processed, the juice clarified through cold settling followed by a cool fermentation. The malolactic fermentation was prevented to retain acidity and freshness but the wine remained on its yeast lees for six months to add complexity.