2019 Curly Flat Macedon Sparkling

100% Chardonnay from our 2000 block. The fruit was hand picked, very gently pressed, and then fermented in old (5-7yo) barriques. The wine remained on lees in these barrels for 9 months, before being tiraged in January 2020. After more than 4 years on lees, our 2019 Macedon was disgorged in October 2024.

Curly Flat Macedon 2019 Sparkling Blanc de Blancs is a refined expression of the Macedon Ranges terroir, crafted from 100% whole-bunch pressed Chardonnay with zero malolactic fermentation. In the glass, it reveals a delicate and persistent bead of fine bubbles. The nose is vibrant yet subtle, featuring aromas of lemon and yuzu, underscored by floral hints and evolving into richer notes of lemon curd and croissant, suggestive of well-integrated secondary and tertiary complexities.

On the palate, this wine is dry, with beautiful tension and a harmonious balance between elegance and richness. The texture is both supple and structured, unfolding layers of lemon curd, marzipan, and brioche, beautifully interwoven with bright citrus elements. The finish is enduring, bringing forth a mineral, saline edge that enhances the wine’s depth and complexity. With its precision, layered nuances, and graceful structure, this sparkling wine embodies both finesse and a lively sense of place, offering a memorable tasting experience for lovers of refined sparkling wines.

A wonderful drink now – either as an aperitif or with a meal – and over the next 3 years.

Methode Traditionnelle is a unique and very special method employed by the great sparkling wines of the world.  The base wine is bottled along with some yeast and a small amount of sugar. Fermentation occurs within the bottle, the technique discovered by Dom Perignon in the 17^th century.  Slowly the process of autolysis occurs. This enzymatic reaction between the wine and the yeast results in the production of amino acids and releases proteins and carbohydrates into the wine. These compounds add richness and creaminess to the palate, and complex aromas including brioche, bread dough, nougat and crushed biscuits.

We decided to keep the dosage – the small amount of sugar added to the bottle after disgorgement – close to zero, to showcase the wonderful purity of fruit- and the complexing elements of extended time on lees.