March 2010

Keeping in line with the theme of hidden gems this month I thought it would be fun to feature a country not often thought about when speaking about wine…Tasmania.

Tasmania, for the geography impaired, is located approximately 200 miles, as the crow flies, south of the most southern point off the Australian coast. The Bass Strait separates the island from Australia.

The hidden gem that I would love to share with you is a beautiful Pinot Noir from a winery called Bays of Fire. Slightly prior to 1994, Tasmania was identified as having the potential to produce world class wines. Tasmania’s first vineyard was planted in 1821. Bays of Fire was established in 1994 and, to date, produce amazing cool climate wines such as Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and some sparkling wines.

The Pinot Noir is my favourite and it is a stunner! It possesses a rich, delicate ruby colour. It is packed full of ripe red cherry fruit with hints of raspberry, a leathery smoky nose and a slight earthiness. It is perfect on the palate with the right amount of depth and tannin to create the ultimate balance and length of finish.

The fruit for this Pinot is sourced from premium vineyards across the country. This sourcing allows the wine maker to take full advantage of the viticulture across the country and to show off the diversity of the grapes from the different regions.

Initially when I tasted this wine four and a half years ago I was sceptical. Boy was I wrong. Consistency is a value that this winery holds and they deliver each year. I will continue to savour the flavours for vintages to come and I hope you get a chance to as well. You can find the wines online at www.wine-searcher.com. Enjoy my hidden gem and I hope you will share it with others.