Tasting Notes
The Shiraz for this first release of the Kura Shiraz/Pinot Noir blend is sourced from a vineyard in the TamarValley as well as a vineyard just outside of Richmond in the Coal River Valley, the former a combination of1654 and Tahbilk clones, and the latter the PT23 clone planted on a north facing slope in 2017. The Pinot Noiralso comes a Coal River Valley vineyard, located at Tea Tree and planted in 2004 to the D2V5 clone.
The Shiraz was destemmed and left as whole berries whilst the Pinot Noir was left as whole bunches. TheShiraz and Pinot Noir parcels were co-fermented. Cold soaked for three days prior to being warmed up forwild ferment (by indigenous yeasts) which lasted for about seven days prior to being pressed to tank. Rackedoff gross lees to French oak puncheons the next day, 25% of which were new. Seven months in oak on finelees prior to preparing for bottling. Final blend: 70% Shiraz, 30% Pinot Noir. - Winemaker Note
Stargazer is the personal project of winemaker Samantha Connew, based in Tasmania’s Coal River Valley. Established in 2012, the label takes its name from Abel Tasman, the Dutch explorer who first sighted the island, and reflects both a sense of discovery and Sam’s own pioneering spirit.
The estate vineyard, planted in 2007 on volcanic basalt and dolerite soils, is farmed with sustainability at its core and produces Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling. Fruit is also sourced from select growers across the Coal River and Derwent Valleys, chosen for their ability to deliver clarity and site expression.
In the cellar, Sam works with a thoughtful, hands-off approach: wild fermentations, minimal intervention, sensitive use of oak and a focus on balance and texture. The resulting wines are detailed, elegant and expressive, marked by fine structure, purity of fruit and a distinctly Tasmanian cool-climate freshness.
Stargazer has quickly become one of Tasmania’s most exciting small producers, celebrated for wines that are precise, individual and full of character.
| Product Type | Wine Red Other Varietal & Blends |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Country | Australia |
| Region | Tasmania |
| Sub Region | Coal River |
| Winemaking Practices | Conventional |
| Vineyard Practices | Conventional |