2019 Barringwood Classic Cuvée, Tasmania

Barringwood Classic Cuvée is a refined, méthode traditionnelle sparkling wine from Tasmania’s cool-climate north coast, crafted with precision and finesse. Nestled in the heart of the North West’s coastal hills near Devonport, Barringwood has become one of Tasmania’s quietly brilliant producers, known for site-expressive wines that balance intensity with elegance. The Classic Cuvée is a traditional blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, made in the Champagne method and aged on lees to build depth and texture.

The grapes are estate-grown on basalt-rich soils at elevation, where long ripening under cool conditions delivers excellent natural acidity and complex flavour development. Fermentation is in stainless steel, followed by secondary fermentation in bottle and extended lees ageing, often for over two years. This approach gives the wine its fine bead, creamy mouthfeel and layered complexity.

The nose is crisp and expressive, with notes of green apple, lemon curd, white blossom, brioche and flint. The palate is elegant and dry, with citrus, fresh pear, almond and a chalky minerality. There's a lovely interplay between richness and tension, with vibrant acidity driving a long, precise finish.

Food pairing: perfect with oysters, smoked trout, tempura vegetables, or triple-cream cheese. Also excellent with roast chicken, sushi, or a salty snack platter.

Cellar potential: delicious now for its freshness and precision, but will develop more toast, honey and nutty complexity over the next 5 to 7 years.