Bec Hardy Sparkling NV

Story: A beautiful sparkling sourced from two vineyards in McLaren Vale using the traditional Chardonnay varieties of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Vineyards: The Chardonnay is 63% of the blend and is sourced from the Lower Tintara Vineyard on Kays Rd, Blewitt Springs. This vineyard was originally planted by Thomas Hardy and is now owned by John and Helen Hardy. The Pinot Noir is from the Clay Creek vineyard on Blewitt Springs Rd, McLaren Flat.

Soils: The Lower Tintara vineyard is on sandy loam soils called Maslin Sands, which are some of the oldest soils in McLaren Vale, aged between 34 and 56 million years old. Clay Creek vineyard has deep alluvial clays from the Holocene era (11,700 years old). 

Harvest Date: 23 February (Lower Tintara) and 21 February (Clay Creek)

Winemaking: Parcels were night harvested to retain freshness and gently pressed once at the winery. Cool fermentation in stainless steel was followed by malolatic fermentation and 6 months maturation in seasoned French hogsheads. Final blending and secondary fermentation resulted in a fine, persistent bead and modern, balanced palate.

Nose: The nose offers subtle, elegant aromas of freshly picked green apples and lemon/citrus characters together with brioche.

Palate: Brut style sparkling wine with perfect balance of citrus fruits and creamy complexity. Notes of green apple, lemon pith and cashew bounce along the tastebuds thanks to the fine, persistent sparkling bead.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2026

94 points - Wine Showcase, 2024

90 points - Wine Orbit, 2024

90 points - Wine Pilot, 2024
"A blend of 63% Chardonnay and 37% Pinot Noir from McLaren Vale, the Chardonnay comes from their Lower Tintara Vineyard which was originally planted by Thomas Hardy. Six months maturation in older French hogsheads. 
A very pale lemon hue, there are notes of citrus, grapefruits, sea breezes and a chalky backing. A hint of brioche. A lovely line of citrussy acidity. This is a fizz of medium length with bright effervescence, this is an attractive style for drinking over the next couple of years. Simple but most enjoyable."