NV Pirie Tasmania $40

09/10/2025

OMG. This is a traditional method sparkling that defies logic. Almost hidden from view in the Brown Family Wine Group's very extensive Tasmanian wine portfolio. Seemingly playing second or third fiddle to the company's four deluxe Vintage Pirie wines. Yet release after release, the wine continues to show it's one of the best NVs around, almost certainly the best value NV in the market at the moment.

Unlike many of the industry's flagship sparklings, Pirie is sourced entirely from the Tamar Valley. (The company's Kayena site was established 30 years ago.) Typically Chardonnay-driven, the current offering is a blend of 55% Chardonnay and 45% Pinot Noir, with around 2 years on lees. A small portion of the blend is aged in older French oak.

But all that's academic. This is a classic cool climate NV that demonstrates tremendous consistency, almost irrespective of vintage variations and how its journey plays out through the winery.

Freshness and focus are key characteristics. The Chardonnay component gives the wine great drive and well-sustained acidity to finish. Pinot Noir gives it just a little flesh on the bones in order to deliver some creaminess to the texture. Flavour-wise, think lemon/grapefruit/green apple nuances with bready/shortbready/almond biscotti notes.

Don't just limit your sparkling wine buying to the Christmas/New Year period. This is an affordable wine for all seasons.

Source: Retail purchase