Misha’s Vineyard ‘Verismo’ Pinot Noir 2008

A single vineyard Bendigo wine, from this label’s first commercial vintage in 2008 – a rare 15-year old find, and a joy to taste over lunch this week. A clear medium-depth ruby in the glass, just the hint of age darkening the colour around the edges. Wonderfully expressed aromatics of cranberry, cherry and plum, some middle-eastern spices and a lift of buddleia floral on the nose. Medium bodied, quite refined and precise, with a lithe, balletic poise and movement through the palate. The spice element develops, with a tang of Campari, savoury notes of thyme and mushroom, and an gravelly mineral note that persists through to the finish. A pulse of acidity is still very much beating through the heart, and the tannin is fine and chalky – the two forming a supple spine that the layers of flavours radiate from. Excellent. 96pts