Apogee: The Pioneer's Love Letter

After founding Pipers Brook in 1974, Andrew Pirie sold the estate and started Apogee as his "retirement project." With Australia's first viticulture Ph.D. and 50+ years of Tasmanian experience, this is the most knowledgeable perspective on northeastern Tasmanian Pinot Noir you can find.

What to do there

3 things to do

1. 1 Book a Tasting with Andrew Pirie Wine · Price: high

   Taste with the pioneer who established Tasmania's first quality Pinot.

   Contact Apogee directly for appointments. If Andrew Pirie himself is available, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to taste with the pioneer. Ask about his 1974 decision to plant in Tasmania when experts said it was too cold.

   Log Memory
2. 2 Learn the 50-Year Perspective History · Free

   How has Tasmanian Pinot evolved since 1974?

   Ask about the evolution of Tasmanian Pinot Noir from 1974 to now. Pirie has watched the region grow from nothing to Australia's most sought-after cool-climate zone. What clones work best? How has climate change affected Tasmania?

   Log Memory
3. 3 Taste the Sparkling and Still Side by Side Wine · Price: high · Optional

   See how the same Pinot grapes express differently.

   Request both sparkling and still Pinot Noir from Apogee. The sparkling uses traditional method; the still shows pure Pipers River terroir. Comparing them reveals how winemaking decisions transform the same fruit.

   Log Memory

Insider tips

• Andrew Pirie calls Apogee his 'retirement project' - a love letter to northeastern Tasmania

• Australia's first Ph.D. in viticulture - no one knows Tasmanian terroir better

• Small production means you need to plan ahead