Tasmanian wine a wild dervish of flavor

  I'm ashamed to admit I still don't know much about Tasmania beyond its devils.

  But I do know now I'm a fan of its wine.

  The island has more of a cooler climate than the rest of Australia, which makes for a distinctly crisper and more vibrant wine than other wine regions of the country.

  I was introduced to Tasmanian wine through Frogmore Creek, a truly excellent winery that produces under two labels — elegant Frogmore Creek and the value-priced 42 Degrees South, (named for the latitude of Tasmania).

  I'm not typically a Chardonnay person, but the Frogmore Creek Chardonnay will please fans of the varietal. The wine is rich with tropical flavors, built on a firm, oaky foundation.

  I loved the 42 Degrees South Pinot Noir, which is slinky and fruity, like a glass of Carmen Miranda at her most sultry.

  Then I couldn't believe my luck when I popped open the Frogmore Creek Cuvee Evermore, which is a sparkling wine made with Pinot Noir grapes. I think angels bottled it just for me.

  Retail prices range from $16 to $30 per bottle. Find it at Dan's Wine Shop, Wild for the Vine and a number of upscale restaurants throughout the valley.