2018 Deviation Road Beltana Blanc de Blancs, Adelaide Hills

Deviation Road Beltana Blanc de Blancs is one of Australia’s finest sparkling wines, a pristine and powerful expression of cool-climate Adelaide Hills Chardonnay crafted in the traditional method. Deviation Road is a family-run estate established by Hamish and Kate Laurie in the picturesque Adelaide Hills. Kate trained in Champagne and brings that experience to every bottle, producing sparkling wines of exceptional purity, finesse, and aging potential. Beltana represents the pinnacle of their sparkling range, made from the best parcels of estate-grown Chardonnay and aged extensively on lees before release.

The vineyards sit high in the Adelaide Hills, where cool temperatures, crisp nights, and long growing seasons are perfect for cultivating Chardonnay with vibrant acidity and fine structure. The fruit for Beltana is handpicked early to preserve delicacy, then gently whole-bunch pressed. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel to retain freshness, followed by secondary fermentation in bottle and a long period of lees aging (typically 5 years or more) to build texture, creaminess, and complexity. No malolactic fermentation is used, ensuring the wine maintains its razor-sharp focus and citrus-driven energy.

In the glass, Beltana shows a brilliant pale straw colour with a fine, persistent bead. Aromas of lemon zest, white florals, green apple, and freshly baked brioche rise delicately, underpinned by subtle chalky minerality. The palate is precise and elegant, with taut citrus and orchard fruit flavours wrapped in a creamy mousse. Extended lees contact adds layers of almond, nougat, and pastry, while the vibrant acidity drives a long, crystalline finish. It’s a sparkling wine of incredible poise and sophistication.

Beltana is exceptional as an aperitif but also shines alongside oysters, kingfish crudo, tempura prawns, or a delicate goat’s cheese tart. Its structure allows it to pair beautifully with richer dishes like roast chicken or creamy mushroom pasta. This cuvée can be enjoyed on release for its vibrancy or cellared for 8 to 10 years to develop deeper autolytic complexity.