Apsley Gorge is a small east-coast Tasmanian estate established by Brian Franklin near Bicheno, working in a quietly Burgundian vein since the early 1990s. The vineyard sits in cool, maritime-influenced country between the granite walls of the Apsley Gorge and the Tasman Sea, where slow ripening and naturally bright acidity produce Pinot of real complexity.
The 2017 shows lovely bottle development. Dark cherry and plum fruit lead, threaded through with anise, cedar, dried herbs and a meaty, savoury undertone. The palate is generous and quietly structured, with fine, slightly grainy tannins and a long, spice-tinged finish that pulls the fruit through to a graceful close.
A characterful, food-friendly Pinot for slow-roasted duck, mushroom risotto, pâté or a winter beef pie.
Vintages may vary. Email us at hello@barrelandbatch.com.au if you would like confirmation.