2021 Dawson & James Pinot Noir, Derwent Valley

Pinot noir from winemakers Peter Dawson and Tim James; MV6 and Pommard clones from 1989 plantings on the Meadowbank vineyard in the Derwent Valley. Bright ruby in the glass with aromas of red cherry and plum fruits dredged with exotic spice and amaro herbs, whiffs of roasting meats, undergrowth, gentle cedar and earth. Silky and fruit pure with fine, chalky tannin grip and a meaty, complex palate shape that exits long, elegant and true.

95 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

Dawson & James Pinot Noir from the Derwent Valley is a quietly compelling and beautifully detailed Tasmanian Pinot that reflects both site precision and the experience of two highly respected hands, Peter Dawson and Tim James. The Derwent Valley sits inland from Tasmania’s east coast, delivering a long, cool growing season with cold nights that preserve fragrance and acidity while allowing slow, even ripening. Vineyards here are planted on a mix of clay, gravel and sandstone, giving the wine both fine structure and a subtle mineral edge. Fruit is hand harvested, with a measured use of whole bunches to lift aromatics and add spice, then fermented naturally in small open vessels and matured in carefully chosen French oak that supports rather than overshadows the fruit.

The aromatics are refined and expressive. Red cherry, wild strawberry and raspberry form the core, layered with rose petal, cranberry and a gentle whole bunch spice of clove and white pepper. Beneath the fruit sits a cool savoury thread of forest floor, dried herbs and crushed stone that feels unmistakably Tasmanian. As the wine opens, hints of orange peel, dried flowers and subtle oak warmth add further complexity.

The palate is silky, precise and beautifully balanced. Bright red fruits glide across ultra fine, chalk dust tannins that give shape without weight, supported by fresh acidity that carries the wine long and clean. Flavours of cherry skin, redcurrant and pomegranate unfold in calm layers, finishing with a savoury mineral edge and lingering spice. It is drinking superbly now but has the structure to evolve gracefully over eight to twelve years, developing truffle, sous bois and autumnal depth.

A natural match for roast duck, game birds, mushroom dishes, chargrilled salmon, beetroot based plates or soft, earthy cheeses. This is Pinot Noir of restraint, clarity and confidence, a true expression of the Derwent Valley and one of Tasmania’s most thoughtful producers.