But, far away from us all, on a remote, yet sizeable island off Australia, the last of the real Tasmanian Devils live. Although it’s only the size of a small dog its pungent odour, horrendously loud screech and nasty bite, keep us humans from shoving it into our Gucci bags for a jaunt along the King’s Road.
A more important thing Tasmania is becoming known for is its wine. This southerly location, surrounded by hostile seas and winds, result in a cooler climate that creates wines which are slow to ripen, typically resulting in a late harvest.
If it wasn’t so far, far away I would certainly be tempted to fly out there and explore the region myself. Thankfully, there are a few examples that you can get in the UK that are worth trying.
I first tasted the Jansz Premium NV Cuvée at a wine tasting of Australian wines at the Tate Britain last year. I thought it was a lovely sparkling wine – a fine structure, slight minerality and citrus from the Chardonnay, floral and fruits from the Pinot Noir, “enhanced by layers of fresh cream, yeasty brioche and a fine, velvet-like mousse”.
Subsequently, I’ve been delighted to see that the Geronimo Pubs have this bubbly on their menu at a reasonable £29.50. You won’t be disappointed if you are looking for an alternative to Champagne or Processo.
www.geronimo-inns.co.uk
Another wine I’ve thoroughly enjoyed, and sadly finished, is the Devil's Corner Pinot Noir 2008 from Tamar Ridge. This really is a delicious, easy-drinking wine. It has lovely red berry aromas – packing in strawberries, cherries, plums and is followed by more fruits of strawberry and cherry on the palate – it’s oh so smooth and silky! Just don’t be fooled by the 14% alcohol.
Jamie, from Bon Coeur Fine Wines originally sent me this wine as part of a mixed case (£10.99) and I came across this again at a Revelsoke Wines tasting event last month (£14.25).
www.bcfw.co.uk
www.revelstoke.co.uk
