Reviewed 23 January 2013

It was a fascinating exercise to look at the two pinots from Moss Wood. One is from Margaret River and the other from Mornington. Stylistically, the wines were quite different, with the feminine appeal of the Mornington being my pick.

I have not seen the Abel’s Tempest from Heemskerk before, but if this is an example of the quality of their wines, then I need to try some more.

Reviewed

Moss Wood – Pinot Noir – Mornington Peninsula – 2010 (17.8). This wine has ripe fruit that is precise and very refined. In fact, it has been superbly made and has no rough edges. The palate is gently textured and refined, with the oak there merely for support. The length of flavours on the finish is admirable. The next day this was even better, as the silky fruit had opened and the structure softened. A very good new-world pinot and an excellent drink!

Heemskerk – Pinot Noir – Abel’s Tempest – 2010 (17.5). Opens with complex, savoury, almost earthy aromas, with lovely fruit on show that has been well handled. The palate displays textured, vibrant fruit, though this is currently shut down by fine oak and tannins. Should evolve over the next few years. Beautifully made, this is a lighter style that opens in the glass to become an excellent drink. (If this is their second wine, I must try a bottle of their top wine!)

Spring Vale – Pinot Noir – 2009 (17.2). Dense fruit that has some ripe fruit characters over stalky/whole bunch ferment aromas and flavours. Quite complex really, the fruit here is powerful, and really sweetens up with air. Quality fruit that has been well handled, this is a supple, pretty wine with excellent length. A good wine that is accessible now.

St Huberts – Pinot Noir – 2011 (16.5). Ripe cherry fruit, with pleasant stalky characters. The palate is fresh, with gentle spice and acidity to close. The fruit is not particularly dense, but has been handled well. Supple, uncomplicated drinking over the next few years.