Henskens Rankin D2 Blanc de Blanc 2014 from Tasmania is a laser‑fine, single‑vintage Chardonnay sparkler, built for precision, texture and serious longevity. It’s a pure Blanc de Blancs expression, focusing entirely on Chardonnay’s citrus, floral and nutty complexity as it evolves with age. This 2014 D2 Blanc de Blanc sits firmly in the “Champagne‑rival” camp of Tasmanian sparkling.

In the glass, expect a very pale straw colour, ultra‑fine bead and aromas of lime blossom, lemon zest and lemon curd, crunchy green apple, white flowers and subtle pastry notes. With extended time on lees, the palate layers in toasted almond, praline, clover honey, pastry dough and almond brittle over that core of citrus and apple, all driven by thrilling, refreshing acidity. It’s simultaneously delicate, intensely flavoured and very moreish, with a long, chalky, saline finish and a clear ability to age well into the next decade.

On the table, Henskens Rankin D2 Blanc de Blanc 2014 is superb with oysters, scallops, lobster, crab and refined white‑fish dishes, as well as tempura, prawn dumplings or lightly spiced Asian seafood. It also works beautifully with triple‑cream or soft bloomy cheeses, gougères, poultry in cream sauces and delicate tartlets or canapés at the start of a long dinner. This is one of those bottles that comfortably anchors New Year’s Eve or a milestone celebration and rewards those who like their sparkling tense, chalky and complex rather than overtly fruity.