Sidewood Estate Sparkling Pinot Chardonnay NV - 3x75cl

60% Pinot Noir | 40% Chardonnay

Stuart McCloskey, tasted 14 July "Winemaker Darryl Catlin has carefully selected the finest parcels of fruit from across the estate, harvesting each block at optimum ripeness. Only the free-run juice is used, with wild yeast fermentation in stainless steel followed by partial malolactic fermentation of the Chardonnay. Extended lees ageing builds texture and complexity before a secondary fermentation and bottling at the estate.

If there is a better sparkling wine at this level currently being produced in Australia, I would genuinely love to taste it. Sidewood has achieved something quite remarkable. This is a wine built for everyday enjoyment, yet crafted with the same attention to detail and respect for the fruit that runs throughout the entire sparkling collection.

The bouquet is wonderfully pure and inviting. Bright lemon zest, crisp green apple and white peach lead the way, supported by hints of pear, fresh citrus blossom and a gentle sea-spray freshness. Beneath the vibrant fruit lie subtle notes of brioche, freshly baked sourdough and a whisper of toasted almond, adding complexity without ever distracting from the wine's precision.

The palate is beautifully composed. A lively, persistent mousse brings an immediate sense of energy, whilst the Pinot Noir contributes generosity and texture, perfectly balanced by the Chardonnay's freshness and drive. Flavours of orchard fruits, preserved lemon and citrus peel glide effortlessly across the palate before giving way to delicate pastry notes and a clean, mineral finish. There is freshness without sharpness, texture without clumsiness and complexity without excess.

What impresses me most is the wine's honesty. There are no tricks here, no excessive dosage (8 g/l) and no attempt to disguise the quality of the fruit. It simply delivers everything you could hope for (and more) from a sparkling wine at this level: purity, balance, and immense drinkability."