Island Belle is our entry level based on our established winemaking approach and philosophy
The grapes are sourced from the Meadowbank vineyard in the Derwent Valley, Tasmania, utilizing patches of younger vines and new clones that we expect to evolve into Dawson James wines over time.
All of the grapes are hand picked and gently processed to retain a pure expression of fruit and vineyard characteristics. The wines are fermented and matured in seasoned high quality French oak barrels that have been used for previous vintages of Dawson James.
Island Belle Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines highlight fruit purity, flavour and softness combined with our hallmark bright acidity. They are approachable when young but retain structure for longevity.
Island Belle has its own identity with a label that is evocative of discovery and beauty. The island state of Tasmania and a nod to the Belle Epoque.
2022 Island Belle Chardonnay
2022 was a cool season with Chardonnay grapes being hand-picked on 8th April prior to late season rainfall. Unsettled weather during flowering resulted in a low crop which was flavour ripe at moderate sugar levels.
Grapes were whole bunch pressed and the juice was fermented in French oak barriques and puncheons.
The wine displays lemon pith and grapefruit aromas and flavours which are complimented by creamy, nutty nougat characters. The palate is soft, full and long, finishing with lingering natural acidity.
2022 Island Belle PINOT NOIR
In keeping with the cool season grapes were hand-picked on 13th April prior to late season rainfall. Fruit came from two patches of MV6 and Bernard 115 clone. It was a year of moderate crop which allowed the fruit to achieve full maturity at low sugar levels.
Forty percent of whole bunches were retained for inclusion in fermentation which was carried out in a traditional concrete tank. Following a short post fermentation maceration the tank was drained and basket pressed to French oak barriques.
The wine has a lifted perfume with floral and black cherry notes. The palate combines creamy cherry fruit and fine ripe tannins which provide an appealing textural quality. Soft natural acidity confers freshness, length and life.
COOL CLIMATE WINES
Our grapes are grown on the Meadowbank vineyard, approximately 60 kms northwest of Hobart. Its rugged topography is bounded by the fast flowing, pristine waters of the Derwent River. These grapes are used to create our unique Chardonnay and Pinot Noir single vineyard wines.