House of Arras Blanc de Blanc
House of Arras Blanc de Blanc is a dry, light-bodied sparkling from Chardonnay (Tasmania, Australia), in the sparkling style. Acidity is fresh; oak influence is some. Good with eggs, shellfish, aperitif, oysters. Drink now or within 10 years (to about 2036). No need to decant. Critic score 95/100 (merchant-reported).
| Wine | Sweet | Body | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bellavista Alma Franciacorta Gran Cuvée Brut 6 pack Bellavista · Lombardy | £32.29 | |||
| Thaya Sekt Rose Brut 2021 Thaya · Moravia | £29.24 | |||
| Antica Fratta Franciacorta Essence Saten 2020 Antica Fratta · Lombardy | £27.19 | |||
| Lyme Bay, Brut Reserve, Nv Lyme Bay · England | £27.00 |
Drink it now or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant. Founded in 1995, House of Arras is a winery on the island of Tasmania, owned by Ed Carr. The company produces premium Australian cool-climate sparkling wines, which undergo extensive aging before release. The vineyards enjoy a unique climate with cool nights and mild summers, ensuring slow, even ripening and the development of a perfect acidity. The Chardonnay grapes are sourced from high-quality vineyards located along the Pipers River in the Derwent Valley and other plots throughout Tasmania. After harvest (partly mechanically and partly manually), a small portion of the wine is fermented in French oak barrels that are at least four years old. This is followed by blending and secondary fermentation, with a period of approximately 30 months on the lees. In the glass, the wine reveals a brilliant color of pale golden tones with light greenish hues. Its aromatic profile is fragrant and broad, with notes of ripe citrus, white peach, and apple, as well as lemon curd and brioche, and hints of honeysuckle. On the palate, it is expressive and pure, silky and balanced, with a lively fruitiness and a pleasant touch of salinity. The finish is long, fresh, and juicy. It is the perfect companion to an elegant brunch and also pairs well with lobster.