Barry Weinman: 25th May 2019
Pinot Noir remains the holy grail for many wine drinkers. At its best, the grape is capable of producing wines of extraordinary beauty and complexity. All too often, however, events in the vineyard (and winery) conspire to make less than exciting wines.
In this tasting, for example, of the 16 wines reviewed only two made it to this review. Fortunately, the two that made it are both cracking wines. Different in style to each other, but both delicious examples of Australian Pinot Noir.
Reviewed
Pooley – Pinot Noir – 2017 (18/20pts – $45). Perfumed and lifted fruit on the nose leads onto a palate that has sweet cherry and berry fruit, with just a hint of fresh plum and spice. This is quite rich and opulent, in a most attractive way. On the finish, the fruit flavours linger and are framed by fine acidity and tannins. Great drinking now with food. From Tasmania
Mac Forbes – Pinot Noir – Yarra Valley – 2018 (18/20pts – $33). Whilst the single vineyard wines from Mac Forbes tend to steal the limelight, it was the entry-level Yarra Valley Pinot Noir that got the panel the most excited, due to the value that it offers. Initially a little shy, but there is really good fruit on show. Builds depth with air, the fruit becoming very attractive and fragrant. The palate is a little lean and sinewy to start, but again hits its straps with air. Good value.