”62/38% chardonnay/pinot noir, from Derwent Valley, Coal River Valley, East Coast and Pipers River vineyards; 10% fermented in new French oak barriques; full mlf; aged 7 years on lees; 2.7g/L dosage. The evolution of Arras is a case study in the coming of age of Australian sparkling. This point in its trajectory is particularly compelling, introducing a touch of new French oak fermentation and simultaneously dropping dosage to almost nought. This cuvée leads out with the crunch of Tasmanian chardonnay that characterises Arras. Seven years on lees, in concert with that new oak, has amassed considerable depth of roast almonds, toast, vanilla custard and biscuity personality, with a hint of sautéed mushrooms. Wonderful drive of lemon, grapefruit, dried pear and a touch of ginger project through a finish of magnificent line and length. Dried-extract phenolic grip is prominent, yet well matched to its fruit presence and secondary allure, promising grand endurance.”