2018 Riposte by Knappstein Reserve Pinot Noir, Adelaide Hills

A blend of whole bunch and destemmed fruit utilising the regional stalwart, clone D4V2; the Australian battle axe, MV6; together with the Dijon transplant, 115. This mid-weighted pinot boasts an intensity of flavour juxtaposed against a weightless skein of vibrant acidity, svelte tannins and forest floor spindle. Think dark cherry, sarsaparilla and some judicious oak work (33% new French) to guide the package long.

93 points Ned Goodwin MW therealreview.com

Riposte by Knappstein Reserve Pinot Noir from the Adelaide Hills is a polished, expressive and wonderfully aromatic take on cool climate Pinot from master winemaker Tim Knappstein. The fruit is drawn from elevated vineyards in the Hills, where cold nights, long sunny days and complex loam over shale soils produce Pinot with perfume, fine tannin and bright natural acidity. Yields are kept low for concentration, with careful hand picking followed by partial whole bunch fermentation to build lift and spice. Maturation in quality French oak adds subtle savoury depth without overshadowing the fruit.

Aromatically the wine is captivating. Red cherry, wild strawberry and raspberry flow first, then come rose petals, cranberry, and the gentle spice of whole bunches adding clove, pepper and a whisper of pine. Beneath the fragrance lies a cool mineral thread and a touch of forest floor, grounding all the prettiness with quiet complexity. As the wine opens, hints of rhubarb, orange peel and subtle oak toast weave through the bouquet.

The palate is silky and finely shaped, delivering a lovely balance of purity and intensity. Juicy red berries glide across supple tannins, carried by lively acidity that keeps everything bright and energetic. Flavours of cherry skin, redcurrant, baking spice and a faint savoury earthiness unfold in layers before tightening into a long, elegant finish. It is drinking beautifully now but will gather more autumnal depth and spicy nuance with five to seven years in the cellar.

Perfect with roast duck, mushroom ragù, chargrilled salmon, chicken with thyme, beetroot dishes, truffle pecorino or simply a quiet evening where a thoughtful Pinot feels just right. This is a clever, characterful and great value Reserve Pinot from one of the most experienced hands in the Adelaide Hills.