The Dirty Three in question are not Warren Ellis, Jim White and Mick Turner. They are jovial raconteur Stuart Gregor, man of many talents Cameron Mackenzie and winemaker Marcus Satchell. None of them play the violin. This is one of their first two releases, a Pinot Noir from South Gippsland. It’s a cracking start for the team I might add.
You want pinosity, this has it in spades. From its slinky texture to the slightly murky notes of undergrowth and beetroot which keep the sour cherry and brambly dark fruit anchored. Aromas and flavours of deli meat which aren’t whole bunch derived. I asked and there aren’t any whole bunches in here. Those cured meats are attributed by the makers to the whole berries and/or perhaps the wood (French oak, 11 months, 30% new). Refined but complex crushed spice and ultra-soft and intricate tannin that really shapes the backend. Persistent and more than a little wild. A seductive Pinot which eschews gloss for personality. 93
Region: Gippsland
Alcohol: 12.7%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $40
Tasted: September 2013
http://dirtythreewines.com.auhttp://dirtythreewines.com.au
Tasted this wine this week while judging the Gippsland Show. I agree entirely with your note, seductive Pinot purity here. Clearly some great vineyards involved, and made with a gentle hand. A joy to drink.
Polished off the bottle over two nights. Always a good sign. Perhaps a little more seductive than my doctor might like…