Dominique Portet
Dominique Portet got his first whiff of wine at one of the world’s most illustrious wine properties: Château Lafite-Rothschild. It was here in Pauillac that his father, André Portet, served as régisseur (vineyard & winery manager). Dominique went on to earn his stripes at Montpellier University of Oenology before perking up morale as wine-buying adviser during compulsory military service. He later spent vintages in the Médoc, Rhône Valley, Provence and with Champagne giant Moët et Chandon, as well as in the Napa Valley at his brother Bernard’s Clos du Val estate. Since 1976 he has been a pioneer of the renaissance of Australia’s cool-climate wine industry, founding renowned sparkling wine house Taltarni in the Pyrenees and Clover Hill in Tasmania. In 2000 he embarked on his greatest adventure: the Dominique Portet winery in the Yarra Valley.
Region: Yarra Valley
Grapes: Chardonnay
Taste: It is bright lemon-green in the glass, and shows aromas of flint, lemon peel and white stone fruits, with a quiet whisper of cinnamon and cream. On the palate, it’s easy and accessible from the word go. White-fleshed fruit crashes over the tongue while natural acidity lends it elegance and drive. The finish is clean, light and mouth-watering, inviting another sip.
