2020 Apogee Deluxe Vintage Rose, Pipers Brook

The 13th vintage of this wine from Andrew Pirie, this year a blend of 75/8/8% pinot noir/chardonnay/pinot meunier with 30 months on lees. Light salmon pink in the glass with a superfine bead and inviting aromas of raspberry cream and macerated wild strawberries with hints of redcurrants, freshly baked berry danish, sea spray, white flowers and complexing nutty aromas from oxidative handling techniques. Rich and enveloping on the palate with a raft of soft spice, mushroom, grilled nut and fresh brioche tones, tightly focused acidity and a long, persistent finish. Lovely, complex drinking.

95 points Dave Brookes  winecompanion.com.au June 2024

Very light salmon-pink colour, very pretty to regard; the bouquet is dried rose petals, pot-pourri and a little quince-paste. Youthfully fruity. There is rich fruit in the mid-palate underlined by a trace of sweetness that dries off cleanly toward the finish. Excellent balance and really inviting drinkability. 08 SEP 2023 Drink 2023–2030

95 points Huon Hooke therealreview.com

Dr Andrew Pirie is among a select few vignerons to be genuinely considered a legend of the Australian wine industry. After more than 30 years producing, consulting and guiding the production of wines in Tasmania Apogee is the culmination of all his years of experience. The philosophy at Apogee is simple; produce single vineyard wines from the best small holdings of no more than 2Ha., using Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Gris that Pirie has personally selected to make the finest sparkling wines available from Tasmania.

Apogee Deluxe Vintage Rosé from Pipers Brook, Tasmania, is a sophisticated sparkling wine that highlights the artistry of Andrew Pirie, a pioneer of Tasmanian winemaking and a champion of cool-climate viticulture. Crafted in the traditional method, this rosé showcases the purity and finesse of Tasmania’s premium vineyards.

In the glass, it reveals a delicate salmon-pink hue with a fine, persistent mousse. The nose is fragrant and complex, offering aromas of wild strawberries, red currants, and rose petals, layered with hints of brioche and toasted almonds. On the palate, it is vibrant and refreshing, with flavors of raspberry, blood orange, and a subtle creamy texture, balanced by zesty acidity and a long, elegant finish.

Acclaimed for its quality, Apogee Deluxe Vintage Rosé has garnered accolades, including top scores from critics and awards at prestigious wine shows. It pairs beautifully with seared tuna, duck pâté, or a fresh berry tart, making it perfect for celebrations or intimate dinners.