It must be daunting to do a sparkling white wine with anything other than Chardonnay (Blanc de Blanc). I only say that because of the reputation and expectation that the only white variety used to make a bubbles is, lets face it, Chardonnay. Even in the usual Cuvée wine, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir make up the blend (sometimes with a bit of Pinot Meunier too). I have to admit to trying sparkling Rieslings out there in the wine world, but not many other sparkling whites made from different varietals that I can recall. I think it’s pretty cool that winemakers like Ray Costanzo have the confidence to bottle a bubbles made from a different variety like this one.
Things get off to a great start with lovely floral and citrusy notes combine with a toasted brioche bun character for a interest worthy nose.
Refreshing and lively flavours of lemons on the palate with hints of pear and melon playing a role. There’s some nice texture thanks to the base wine spending time on lees while crisp acidity, and that toasty character I mentioned earlier, adding to a moreish length. One thing that really got me about this wine was, as the fizz slowly eased, the flavours seemed to lift and present beautifully. You can’t help but have more than just one glass!
Region: Granite Belt, Queensland Price: $38 Source: Sample thanks to Golden Grove Estate
Words from a Wine Glass 