Every good restaurant – particularly those with an AGFG Chef Hat – has a dedicated Sommelier, or Beverage Manager taking care of a carefully curated wine list to accompany the menu.
Who better to ask what’s trending in the vino world right now than these knowledgeable wine buffs? Welcome to our ‘Wine of the Week’ series, where we highlight particular wines on the radar of restaurants around the country.
In a landmark 1920s building on leafy Russell Street in Melbourne, Gimlet at Cavendish House bar and dining room bring classic European charm to the heart of the city. Step into a world of nostalgia and glamour at the Chicago-style venue, a heritage gem lavishly reimagined as a space for all seasons and reasons from casual catch-ups to intimate rendezvous.
Wine buyer at this 13-hatted venue, Anthony Pieri recommends trying Tasmanian Bellebonne Blanc de Blancs 2015 – made by Natalie Fryar, who has a long and wide history crafting world-class sparkling wines in the Apple Isle.
‘This is her first vintage Blanc de Blanc after years of making incredible sparkling rosés, leading her to be crowned the Queen of Australian Sparkling,” Anthony says.
Abounding with generous notes of pineapple, golden delicious apple, fresh fig and preserved lemon; after six years it also has bountiful brushstrokes of brioche, vanilla custard and a hint of nutmeg. Capturing the essence of Tasmanian sparkling wine in one glass, this drop is made to age, it is thrilling and lithe.
Pair this wine with seafood platters and oysters to bring out the fresh spectrum of flavours; or go rogue and enjoy a glass with buttered popcorn while watching a movie!
