The 2019 Quartz Reef Méthode Traditionnelle Blanc de Blancs is a premium vintage sparkling wine from Bendigo in Central Otago. The blend is 93% Chardonnay and 7% Pinot Noir, hand-picked and matured for five years on lees before being disgorged in 2024. The nose shows citrus, green apple and white peach with white flowers, oyster shell, almond and delicate pâtisserie notes.
On the palate, it is dry, taut and finely textured with youthful acidity and a persistent, delicate mousse. Green apple and citrus are layered with clover, honey, toasted nuts and savoury lees complexity, while a saline, chalky mineral character brings precision and tension. The finish is exceptionally long, fresh and focused, with the extended lees ageing adding depth without sacrificing energy.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is a great choice for sparkling wine drinkers who enjoy serious, age-worthy méthode traditionnelle wines with fine bubbles, mineral freshness and complex lees character. The 2019 received 96 points from The Real Review and was named Champion Sparkling at the New Zealand Organic Wine Awards in both 2025 and 2026. Enjoy now or cellar further, and pair with oysters, scallops, sashimi, grilled seafood, roast chicken or aged cheeses.
