Tamar Valley, Tasmania, is renowned for its exquisite Pinot Noir. However, this picturesque region offers a treasure trove of alternative red wine varietals that promise to delight any wine enthusiast looking for something unique. Join us on a Red Wine Varietal Road Trip through the Tamar Valley as we explore these lesser-known but equally captivating wines.
Pipers Brook Vineyard: Discovering Pinot Meunier
Our journey begins at Pipers Brook Vineyard, where the spotlight shifts from Pinot Noir to its close relative, Pinot Meunier. Known for its bright berry fruits, Pinot Meunier offers a delightful twist. This varietal is savoury and lightly structured with a crunchy acidity and hints of earthiness. Perfect for those who appreciate the nuanced elegance of Pinot Noir but are eager to try something new.
The Sharing many nuances of its close relative Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier shows bright berry fruits. Delightfully savoury and lightly structured with a crunchy acidity and hints of earthiness comes from Tasmania’s farmer’s markets, fishing boats and oyster leases, country fields and the wondrous meanderings of spirited travellers with passionate palates.
Pipers Brook
Winter Brook Vineyard: The Dornfelder & Maverick
Next, we head to Winter Brook Vineyard, where the 2022 Dornfelder reigns supreme. Dornfelder is celebrated for its dark plums, violets, musk rose, and spices. This varietal is smooth on the finish and highly sought after for its distinct, individual, and delicious style. At Winter Brook Vineyard, we also encounter the Maverick, a signature wine that combines Dornfelder, Reserve Pinot Noir, and Baco Noir. This trifecta creates a dark and broody, character-filled wine. Each component is matured separately in Hungarian oak, adding raw tobacco spice and leather notes to the blend. The Maverick is robust and age-worthy, with dark chocolate, cherries, and black truffle aromatics reminiscent of a black forest. This wine is perfect for aging, promising even greater complexity over time.
Sinapius: Experiencing Gamay
Our next stop on the journey is at Sinapius where they offer two separate Gamay options for discovery. The first is the Estate Grown Gamay which undergoes traditional whole cluster carbonic maceration for 2 weeks. This wine has notes of strawberry and red-currants, with hints of violet. To top it off the wine has some wonderfully fine spice and acidity to finish – even try it cold if you would like a slightly different palate experience.
The second Gamay on offer at Sinapius is the 2023 Vaughn’s Jardin Gamay which is 100% destemmed and then pressed after 14 days on skins followed by maturation in old French oak barriques. There are some noticeable smoked, charcuterie notes along with the expected red and blue fruits.
Marion’s Vineyard: Unveiling Mavrodaphne and the allure of Cabernet Franc
Our journey continues to Marion’s Vineyard, where we discover the 2019 Mavrodaphne. This light and pretty Greek variety is unique, being the only planting in Australia. Mavrodaphne is known for its delicate yet expressive character, offering a refreshing departure from the typical bold reds.
Finally, we savour the 2019 MV Cabernet Franc at Marion’s Vineyard. This varietal brings a touch of classic elegance to our road trip, with its characteristic herbaceous and berry notes. Cabernet Franc offers a balanced and smooth experience, making it a wonderful addition to the diverse wines of Tamar Valley.
The Tamar Valley’s reputation for Pinot Noir is well-deserved, but this Red Wine Varietal Road Trip reveals a world of alternative reds waiting to be explored. From the bright and savoury Pinot Meunier at Pipers Brook Vineyard to the legendary Dornfelder and the robust Maverick at Winter Brook Vineyard, and the unique Mavrodaphne and elegant Cabernet Franc at Marion’s Vineyard, there’s a wealth of flavors and experiences to discover. So, pack your bags, grab your wine glass, and embark on a journey to taste the hidden gems of the Tamar Valley.
Happy tasting! To explore more of these gourmet trails created in partnership with Tamar Valley Wine head over to app.gourmakers.com.
Discover more about the Tamar Valley at https://www.tamarvalleywine.com.au.