DAOSA Blanc de Blancs 2016
winepilot – Angus Hughson
“There are not many sparkling wines in Australia that literally have everything thrown at them to give the highest levels of complexity, but that is what we have here. It’s the Krug equivalent of Australian Blanc de Blanc. Premium Adelaide Hills chardonnay fruit, gently pressed before barrel ferment and aging to provide texture and detail, before another four years of ageing. It has provided a richness and generosity of fruit while still retaining finesse, so this is a wine equally at home as an aperitif or on the dining table.
It immediately jumps out of the gate with fantastic complexity – citrus and custard apple with honeyed brioche notes plus some oxidative nuttiness which provides an alluring savoury edge. It is then dry, powerful and crisp with a core of biscuity, buttery, crushed cashew flavours on a creamy but balanced palate before a strong finish, while still retaining its delicacy. It’s got the richness of the vintage indelibly stamped on it but also significant beauty with plenty of ageing potential.” 95 points – 2021-2030