2025 Hughes & Hughes Pinot Gris
Jonny Hughes is one of the most exciting winemakers in Tassie right now, and his take on Pinot Gris is a world away from the bland, watery stuff you usually find on the supermarket shelves.
He treats the variety with a lot more respect, sourcing fruit from all over the map - the North West, Tamar, and Derwent Valley - to get a proper snapshot of the island. What makes this really stand out is how Jonny builds the texture. He ferments a portion of the grapes on skins and another chunk in old French oak barrels.
It’s got this beautiful, slightly blushed hue and a weightiness on the palate that adds complexity but still remains incredibly fresh. It’s not just about fruit here; there’s a real savoury, lees-driven complexity and a bit of creaminess too. It’s exactly the kind of wine that bridges the gap between a refreshing white and a light orange wine.
If you’re over simple Pinot Gris and want something with a bit of soul and grit, this is a total winner.