Nick’s outstanding wine tasting.
The fantabulous Society Bar.
A uniquely Tasmanian gin flight
The motley crew at dinner
Pork Hock at Frogmore
Desert at Frogmore was a ToyChest.
My Favourites
the still use by Sullivan’s Cove
Colour me jealous. Sorry I couldn't make it
Always next year VPS.
The consensus was to do another one next year, with more advance warning.
Some of the venues were absolutely outstanding, more in keeping perhaps with a winery in France than Australia. Getting to speak to the actual winemaker, Nick Glaetzer, who was worked at such places as Leeuwin Estate, Wolf Blass, Lindeman’s, Rosemount, Evans & Tate, was a real treat. His current release certainly demonstrates what he learned in France at Domain de la Ferrrandière in the Languedoc and Domain Albert Morot in Burgundy, as well as Germany with Weingut Egon Müller. The standout wine was his überblanc riesling which was like nothing I have tasted, his Reveur Pinot Noir was also outstanding with great complexity, and the Mon Pere Shiraz 2016 will rival the 2010 that won the 50th Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy.
There was a sommelier par excellence at the Gasworks Cellar Door, with perhaps the largest collection of Tasmanian wines I have seen in one collection, there were 16 wines available for tasting, 8 white, 8 red and these continually rotate with new wines replacing any empty bottle.
The Sullivan’s Cove tour and tasting was interesting, informative, interactive and entertaining, but perhaps less enjoyable than Nick’s cellar. The view at Coal Valley Vineyard was stunning, however lunch was unfortunately not too outstanding, my sincere apologies for this, at least they did not charge for the 2 meals that were effectively inedible, and the wines were forgettable, so we will not be back again.
Pooley wines were a ‘must visit’ request from Steady, and he certainly got what he wanted. They are passionate and knowledgeable about their soil, wine and history, with generous tastings.
I think Society Bar was a fine way to end the tour, Rooflyer got his Gin tasting, as did many of us. Comfortable leather couches had been reserved and the drinks list was extensive, but not in the wine department, sorry Delectable Blue, so I think it will be a fine way to end the next tour too.
So I believe we can do the next tour with some modifications to make it even better. Thanks to all the attendees for coming, and their words of wisdom. Having a moderator travel down for dinner was also a lovely surprise, and I believe the Lounge by Frogmore Creek was an experience to remember. So dinner to end the day will definitely be on the agenda next year.