2023 Idée Fixe Premier Brut

95 POINTS

Ray Jordan

This is a blanc de blancs style made from 100 per cent chardonnay from Margaret River. There’s some real power in this wine, and to me it’s probably the best example of it yet. Creamy, lightly stone-fruited characters on the nose, with a little lemon curd and brioche. The palate brings it all home with intensity and drive, supported by a lovely lifted mouthfeel, lively bead and precise acidity. Touches of savoury white peach and a little roasted nut. Terrific wine.

95 POINTS

Jane Faulkner - Halliday Wine Companion

When Paul Holmes à Court wanted to add a sparkling enterprise, a separate operation to Vasse Felix but an adjunct of sorts, I thought, 'What?' Now I just drink the fizz. It’s excellent, and since Brendan Carter, ex-Xanadu, took over a few years ago, quality continues to grow. This fizz is a light straw gold with plenty of bead, and while the chardonnay flavours come to the fore, it has some complexing autolytic notes: shortbread and buttered toast with lemon curd. Crisp, dry and long, the dosage is well judged, so this has a certain refinement. Disgorged April '25.

93 POINTS

Christina Pickard - Wine Enthusiast

Made from an oddball clone of Chardonnay in the cool southern corners of Margaret River, this premium sparkling project—run by the same group that owns the renowned Vasse Felix winery—offers a nose of fresh apple, lemon pith and pear with hints of ginger and a toasty, shortcrust note. It's mouthwateringly fresh a lovely bead of bubbles and just a kiss of sweetness that pops up towards the finish. A project to watch.