Fleshy, approachable Pinot from the Merricks Grove vineyard in the Mornington Peninsula. Not simple by any means though. Made by Steve Webber of De Bortoli wines.
Macerated dark cherries and star anise dominate the nose while flickers of strawberry and undergrowth lurk beneath. A hint of sap. Good intensity and a bit of weight here. The palate plays nicely with sweet concentrated fruits and earthy, mulchy savoury notes before a cinnamon quill and cardamom conclusion.
Big ups when it comes to the firm tannin too. Always nice to see in Australian Pinot Noir. Its fruit forward mannerisms may enable a wider, early drinking appeal but this is a serious and well executed wine. Very Good – Excellent
Region: Mornington Peninsula
Alcohol: 13.0%
Closure: Diam
Price: $40
Tasted: August 2011