Speaking of talent, let's talk about the latest release from one of Tassie's (we'd argue Australia's) most exciting projects... R.D'Meure, the vision created by the gorgeous uncle and nephew duo, Dirk Meure and Rory Duggan.
After spending a career as a lawyer in the UK, Dirk decided to return to Australia in 2000 and settle into full on agricultural retirement. His chosen site was on the land of the Nuenonne people on the hills of the D'Entrecasteaux Channel overlooking Bruny Island and represents Dirk's passion for "nurturing vines and guiding wines through the seasons". He took to caring for the vineyard – converting to organics, making lo-fi character-filled wines (not to mention some of Australia's most sought after and legendary natural wines) and building on this vision until Rory had enough experience under his belt and they were able secure a second site for him to make his mark.
The project started in 2016 with the first vintages made under Dirk's watchful eye. However, in 2020 he hung up the gloves and retired for good and Rory has since taken over. Now in Rory's (more than capable) hands, this 2020 release is his first and, dare we say, it's exceptional. Complexity, vitality and purity writ large. He's gone and created three different yet equally compelling wines and shown a patience that speaks to maturity beyond his years.
First up, a chardonnay from Darlington vineyard in Orford on the east coast of Tasmania is nothing short of stunning. It's got all those Jura-style chardonnay things going on that make you stop and go, whoa. Yep. This is a seriously memorable wine. The curve ball in the mix is a pinot gris from the d'Meure vineyard (Dirk's baby) that spends a month on skins and comes out like a real grown up rose more than an orange wine. It's textural with a good hit of minerality. Super refreshing. Start with it chilled and then let it mosey on up to room temp to let it work it's magic. Last but certainly not least, is a pinot noir from Rory's Antipodes Coal Valley vineyard and it's straight up fancy. Cook something special and, we're not saying this lightly, but break out your finest glassware. No joke.
Like all good things, there ain't a heap going so be quick friends..
