Daosa Blanc de Blancs 2017

Daosa is a specialist in sparkling wines, crafted by the Terre à Terre team in the cool Adelaide Hills region of South Australia. The winery focuses on méthode traditionnelle (traditional method) sparkling wines, particularly showcasing the elegance of Chardonnay. The Daosa Blanc de Blancs 2017 is a 100% Chardonnay sparkling wine made in the classic Champagne style, using fruit from their high-altitude vineyard in the Piccadilly Valley. This region’s cool climate and long growing season make it ideal for producing sparkling wines with finesse, acidity, and depth.

The vineyard is located at 550 metres above sea level, one of the highest in the Adelaide Hills, and its soils are a mix of ancient clay loam and sandstone, which contribute to the wine’s mineral-driven character. The wine is aged on lees for an extended period to develop complexity, and the dosage is kept low to preserve the wine’s natural freshness and purity.

Appearance: A pale, golden yellow with a fine, persistent mousse, showing great clarity and brilliance in the glass.

Aroma: Elegant aromas of green apple, lemon zest, and white peach are complemented by delicate notes of brioche, toasted almonds, and a touch of flint, reflecting its extended lees ageing.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is vibrant and crisp, with flavours of citrus, green apple, and pear, balanced by a creamy texture from the lees contact. There are subtle hints of almond, biscuit, and minerality that add complexity without overpowering the wine’s refreshing character. The acidity is bright and lively, giving the wine a precise and structured feel.

Finish: The finish is long and zesty, leaving lingering citrus and mineral notes, with a subtle hint of toasted bread, showing the finesse and balance of a well-made Blanc de Blancs.

Food Pairing: This sparkling wine would pair beautifully with oysters, as its crisp acidity and mineral notes elevate the briny freshness of the oysters. It would also be excellent with goat’s cheese tart, where the wine’s brightness cuts through the richness of the cheese, while its citrus and almond notes complement the tart’s flavours.