Following on the heels of the 2020 Halliday Awards honouring the House of Arras E.J. Carr Late Disgorged 2004 ‘Australia’s Best Sparkling Wine’, the acclaimed producer has released its annual vintage collection of world-class sparkling wines.
The 2019 vintage collection includes two new vintages – House of Arras Rosé 2009 and House of Arras Blanc de Blancs 2009. These stunners join the Brute Elite NV, and the House of Arras Grand Vintage 2007 (Magnum) and Grand Vintage 2008. James Halliday awarded the E.J. Carr Late Disgorged 2004 a remarkable 99 points. This superb wine is also part of this year’s vintage collection.
In 2018, chief winemaker Ed Carr was presented with the highest award bestowed by the Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships in England. He is the only winemaker from outside Champagne to be so honoured.
Under his stewardship, the House of Arras has won 86 trophies and over 200 gold medals while a House of Arras wine won all the Best Sparkling trophies in every capital city wine show in Australia in 2017. (Something that no other wine producer has accomplished).
All grown in Tasmania, the wines are crafted with handpicked Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier free-run juice only and all are from 100% malolactic fermentation. Tasmania drives the ‘House’ style with the long ripening of fruit. The terroir expresses itself in every glass.
This Magnificent Life was invited to taste this year’s vintage collection from the world-class Tasmanian winery with acclaimed winemaker Ed Carr.
We started with the Brut Elite – fine, dry and with just a hint of colour. The Rosé had the softest of blush and like all this collection had the finest and persistent bead. The Blanc de Blancs was gold in a glass while the Grand Vintage 2008 has an unmistakable and downright delightful truffle bouquet. The Grand Vintage Magnum 2007 displays that same ‘truffle’ bouquet but a little more subtly.
These wines are not only elegant; they are complex, refined with the unmistakable character of expert winemaking. This uniqueness in the ageing process allows the wines to reach their full potential. Despite this, the rich freshness and vibrancy show through in each of these exceptional wines.
Australia’s most awarded winemaker, Ed Carr is like many vignerons – considered, composed and dedicated. He shared his love of the craft and proudly told our small group about this very special collection. Quietly spoken, his exuberance is infectious when he shares the story of these wines.
For more information on House of Arras, visit: www.houseofarras.com.au
TML were guests of Accolade Wines.
