Moët & Chandon is arguably the most famous name in the world of Champagne. The first impression that strikes when tasting the Grand Vintage 1999 is an impression of wealth, both in the development of aromas and flavours of the wine in the mouth.

Paul and Gilli Lipscombe of Sailor Seeks Horse have extended their winemaking reach from the Huon Valley to northern Tasmania for this release. The fruit is sourced from the Small Wonder vineyard in Kayena, a Tamar Valley site currently undergoing organic conversion. This northern location typically offers more generous fruit weight than the Lipscombes’ home estate, while the proximity to the Tamar River ensures the cool-climate structure and acidity remains intact. In the cellar, the winemaking follows a low-intervention path. The fruit is fermented with indigenous yeasts and includes a portion of whole bunches to provide structural grip and aromatic lift. The wine is matured in French oak barriques, with only a small percentage of new wood used to maintain fruit clarity. Recent vintages of this collaboration have been well-received by critics; the Halliday Wine Companion awarded the 2022 release 96 points, noting its balance, poise, and detailed red-fruit profile. This is a precise expression of the Tamar Valley, shaped by two of Tasmania’s most respected winemakers.