Bass Phillip are hardly new to the scene, but the wines continue to reach and delight new audiences. They were, for a time, a well-kept secret celebrated domestically, after the estate’s founder Phillip Jones first sold his wines in 1991. Outside Australia, they often reach retail shelves in small quantities only, but Pinot and Chardonnay lovers will do well to snap them up when they do.
Victoria’s Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula might be on your radar, but its easterly reaches of Gippsland probably won’t be. This extensive region hugs the Tasman Sea, a source of important moderating influence that often makes the noblest New World Chardonnay and Pinot. Organic and biodynamic viticulture coupled with close planting and dry farming result in wines that are concentrated and built to last and evolve.
Whilst Gippsland might not ring a bell, the estate’s owner just might: Jean-Marie Fourrier. Since taking over in 2020, parallels can be seen between his Burgundies and the Bass Phillip range: the sheer vibrancy and exuberance of primary fruit are consistent. The Sotheby’s Wine selection features the Bin 17K Pinot (a now discontinued rarity), the emblematic Estate Chardonnay, as well as the Premium Chardonnay (from a minute plot producing an age-worthy result).
It might be time to re-evaluate your stance on cool-climate Australian wines – Bass Phillip will provide the platform!
Bass Phillip: One of Australia’s Modern Greats
Tom Baxter |Featured Wines
Bass Phillip: Gippsland Estate Chardonnay 2017
Regular price
$54.30 / 750ml
Sale price
$54.30 / 750ml
Unit price
per
Sold Out
Bass Phillip: Gippsland Estate Chardonnay 2018
Regular price
$54.30 / 750ml
Sale price
$54.30 / 750ml
Unit price
per
Sold Out
