Vasse Felix’s expertise with Chardonnay is unrivalled, so it is not surprising that they explored producing a Blanc de Blanc Méthode Traditionelle forty years ago with the culmination resulting in the first release of Idée Fixe (fixed idea/obsession) in 2020. The grapes are grown on a dedicated vineyard on the cooler South Coast of Margaret River that is planted in a selection of Champagne clone vines. This bubbly is as beautiful as the unique bottle. Partially fermented in oak, aged on lees for around 3 years this is a nutty, savoury, sophisticated sparkler.
Winery notes (2023 Vintage)
"Idée Fixe is crafted from the premium, free-run cuvée of handpicked Chardonnay, and meticulous méthode traditionnelle techniques. A light, elegant form is revealed in the fine, even bead and the brilliant pale lemon hue. The delicate mousse is carried by a refined structural balance of phenolics and minerality, revealing an enticing palate with citrus-driven acidity, layered freshness and textural finesse.
The Premier Brut celebrates the fruit’s personality through the conscious direction to make a base Chardonnay of integrity, accentuated with méthode traditionnelle bubbles. Ideal ripening conditions in Karridale supported Chardonnay development with vivid natural acidity and delicate flavour ripeness lending perfectly to sparkling wine making. A wine of intrigue and expansive aromas evolves in the glass over time.
The unmistakable DNA of southern Margaret River Chardonnay and its cool, maritime influence runs through the core. A delicate layer of coastal Rosemary gives way to subtle notes of oyster shell, wet stone and ocean mist. Hints of yellow plum and golden kiwi add a gentle richness, while zesty lemon and crunchy Granny Smith apple drive freshness through the mid-palate. A fine sea foam mousse dances gracefully, unfolding into a long chalky finish with lingering citrus brightness and mineral tension."
We provide a door to door delivery service nationwide. Delivery charges are calculated on a 12 bottle case or part there of.
Delivery charges are calculated during the checkout process based off your address post code. Please ensure you choose the correct post code. We will advise you if you have chosen the incorrect post code.
You may also choose to 'pick up' your order from our wine shop at 188 Durham Street South, Christchurch.
For further details on prices and delivery options please go to the Delivery & Returns section of our site.
If for any reason you are not entirely happy with your order or you suspect that it may be affected by a quality issue, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will remedy the problem straight away. Contact us on (03) 3655134.
Note, for orders of 1 - 2 bottles we charge an additional $6 for packaging. To ensure the safety of the bottles we use specially designed posting boxes.
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Founded in 1967 by Dr. Tom Cullity, Vasse Felix holds the distinction of being Margaret River's first wine estate. Dr. Cullity, a respected Cardiologist, was inspired by his European travels to pursue his passion for winemaking. He was guided by the research of Dr. John Gladstones and Professor Harold Olmo, which pointed to the Margaret River region as an ideal location for crafting fine wines. Despite initial skepticism from the local community, Cullity established a small winemaking facility and produced the region's first commercial wines.
The name "Vasse Felix" was chosen by Cullity as a tribute to Thomas Timothèe Vasse, an Assistant Helmsman from the Baudin Expedition who disappeared in 1801. He hoped to bring a happier fate to his vineyard, as 'felix' means happy or lucky in Latin.
The Peregrine Falcon on the label commemorates an unsuccessful attempt at falconry during the first vintage in 1971 to protect the grapes from native birds. The falcon, when released, flew into the forest and never returned.
The winery's enduring philosophy, set by its founder, is to produce the "best possible wine." Today, the estate continues to focus on its key varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
