Special extended lees sparkling marks Brown Brothers’ 20th premium release

April 6, 2023
By Rachel White

Kept on lees for 12 years, the handcrafted 2010 Extended Lees Patricia Sparkling features Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes from the King Valley. 

Boasting a nutty complexity, toasty palate and bright citrus notes, the special release is a product of meticulous blending and innovation at the Brown Brothers Kindergarten micro-winery. 

Cate Looney, Senior Winemaker at Brown Brothers, said the 2010 vintage was specially chosen for aging given its remarkable freshness and acidity.

“The 2010 vintage had so much lively acid and freshness, we thought it would be great to keep a small number of bottles back and age it, resulting in beautiful creamy, nutty, dried fig characters you get with this extra time on lees,” she said.

This sparking variety is the 20th release in Brown Brothers’ premium Patricia range, named for the “unofficial CEO” and second-generation member of the Brown family who drove the company’s growth, prosperity and culture.

Some notable releases in the premium line include the 2017 Patricia Sparkling, 2021 Patricia Chardonnay, 2018 Patricia Shiraz and 2018 Patricia Cabernet Sauvignon.

“Patricia wines are renowned for their exceptional quality,” said Looney. “We blind benchmark each release against local and international peer wines, and as we produce each vintage, we’re reminded of Patricia’s wise words: ‘You can name this range after me, but it better be bloody good!’ 

“Our commitment to upholding her legacy remains unwavering even after 20 vintages,” said Looney. 

To celebrate the special release, the 2010 Extended Lees Sparkling will be available at the Brown Brothers cellar door and online at brownbrothers.com.au.

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