A wine from the Yarra Valley in Victoria, Australia – suggested to me by more than one winemaker in the area, and enjoyed around a table, with a great steak dinner. A mid-depth ruby colour in the glass, perfumed with red cherry, blood orange, salami, rosehip, elderberry and middle-eastern souk spices. The nose has delicacy and charm, and the palate follows the same, but soon offers a notch up in intensity and energy as it unfurls itself. Youthful, but so smooth and elegant. A very well-articulated, precise style – where a seamless balance of succulent fruit, integrated acidity and polished tannins work in tandem. A lingering suggestion of spice in some fine tannins, enriched with just a dash of minerality. The texture is glossy and deep, flowing into a generous finish of such harmony and length. Worthy of its reputation – both locally and, now, overseas. 96pts
Gembrook Hill Pinot Noir 2021
