2016 Delamere Vintage Sparkling Cuvee, Tasmania

Pale straw with a hint of lime in the glass. Lemon curd, toasted sesame, and seaspray aromatics. Remarkable for its freshness and vibrancy on the palate, apples and roasted seeds interplay against a fine bead whilst a fine saline acidity drives it long to the finish 27 AUG 2022 Drink 2022–2027

 94 points Stuart Knox therealreview.com

From a warm, dry season with lower natural acidity. A high proportion of solids in the ferment for depth and complexity; aged 4 years on lees; 3g/L dosage. The 2016 vintage has delivered a rich and solid vintage cuvée, well handled by Delamere to yield a cuvée of integrity and attraction. The ripeness of pineapple, Golden Delicious apple and bruised pear is heightened by the accentuated wild honey, fruit-mince spice and toast of 5 years age. Well-deployed phenolic grip brings control to succulent generosity, holding the finish with confidence and appeal.

92 points Tyson Stelzer winecompanion.com.au

The 2016 vintage was characterized by very dry conditions and generally warm temperatures. Budburst commenced early in 2016 with strong canopy growth evident by January. The result wines have ripe flavours, which developed at moderate potential alcohol. Natural acidity for these wines lean towards the softer end, providing lovely texture, whilst retaining the elegance and finesse that defines Delamere. 

Gentle whole bunch pressing of the fruit and blended whilst still juice, the 2016 Cuvée is an elegant wine representing some excellent characteristics of the vintage.  The assemblage consists of 64% Chardonnay, 34% Pinot Noir. This year allowed us to use a large proportion of solids during fermentation to give extra depth and complexity. Four years of tirage age, in tandem with 3g/l dosage, this wine shows a luscious palate with evocative length.

White flowers, lemon blossom and lovely biscuity autolysis presage this wine’s opulence. Structural and balanced with fine tannins, the slightly higher dosage of 3g/l vibrantly delivers a palate of sherbet, lemon curd and refined minerality. A wine that will develop brilliantly under cork.

In its youth, this wine is served best with a selection of fresh Tasmanian Seafood. With age the Cuvee is best accompanied with Peking Duck, spatchcock or poached quail eggs.