Tantalus Estate Hawkes Bay Methode Traditionelle NV

Tantalus Estate Hawke's Bay Méthode Traditionnelle Brut is a refined, traditional-method sparkling wine with an inviting mix of ripe orchard fruit and savoury complexity. Chamomile, pear and apple blossom lead into nectarine, red-skinned apple, honeysuckle, marzipan and brioche. Five years on lees gives the fine mousse a creamy texture, while balanced acidity keeps the palate fresh and carries the wine into a long, elegant finish. Made from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, it offers enough depth for the table while remaining bright enough for an aperitif. Serve it with salmon, duck rillettes, gougères or a classic fish pie.

What the winery says:

The Hawke's Bay blend comprises 65% Pinot Noir, 21% Chardonnay and 14% Pinot Meunier. The fruit was whole-bunch pressed and slowly fermented before undergoing malolactic fermentation. The young wines were blended with several reserve wines, including material dating back to 2007, then tiraged in February 2015 and disgorged in May 2020 after five years on lees. The winery describes aromas of chamomile, patisserie pear, apple blossom and marzipan, followed by nectarine, red-skinned apple, honeysuckle and brioche. Alcohol is 12%, with 6.5 grams per litre of residual sugar.

What the experts say:

Candice Chow, Candice Wine Chat, 90/100 (NV)
“This NV Brut is blended with reserve wine dating back to 2007 and spent 5 years on lees, resulting in a harmonious, round-edged, complex wine, adorned with delicate bead and juicy acidity.”