Masterclass – The Power of Perfume

Aroma is first. This is the beginning to understand a wine, to learn something of its story. And it’s here, in quiet moments, that a new realm of appreciation is revealed.

Tasmanian winemaker Samatha Connew will host this masterclass, set to feature Tasting Australia drinks curator Meira Harel in conversation with producers James Erskine and Bryan Martin.
Explore the eccentricities of aroma, considering the influence of grape variety and winemaking techniques such as skin contact.

Connew makes wild-fermented riesling, pinot gris blends and aromatic white varieties under her Stargazer Wine label, founded while she worked on wine research and development in the Hunter Valley. Her industry ties continue, largely through work as a wine judge and Len Evans Tutorial board member.

Harel, a sommelier and wine consultant, has helped shape top Australian restaurants including Grossi Florentino, Daylesford’s The Lake House and, more recently, Press Food & Wine in central Adelaide.

Erskine was among Australia’s leading sommeliers before leaving to craft pithy, natural-leaning McLaren Vale grenache, a quest that evolved into his label Jauma. Today he’s based in the Adelaide Hills, producing all-organic wines.

Canberra district winery Ravensworth is Martin’s base. Its range encompasses estate, regional and esoteric wines, a structure that allows for plenty of off-piste adventures. An industry veteran, Martin spent more than 15 years as the right-hand man to Tim Kirk at Clonakilla.