2021 Riposte by Knappstein The Sabre Pinot Noir, Adelaide Hills

A strongly regional pinot with a streak of rhubarb, tinderbox and pickled cherry. A curb of sandalwood tannins and a carnal whiff of autumnal leaves offsetting the inherently sweet fruit with a waft of welcome savouriness. Mid-weighted, open-knit and ready to drink.

91 points Ned Goodwin MW winecompanion.com.au

Riposte by Knappstein The Sabre Pinot Noir is a focused, finely etched expression of Adelaide Hills Pinot Noir that leans into precision, spice and savoury detail rather than sweetness or weight. The fruit comes from cool, elevated sites across the Hills where long ripening, cold nights and consistent airflow preserve acidity and aromatics. These conditions suit Pinot Noir perfectly, delivering clarity, perfume and a natural line that feels energetic and composed.

Riposte is the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay focused project of winemaker Matt Reimann, whose background in both Australian and European winemaking shows clearly in the style. The Sabre sits at the sharper, more linear end of the Riposte range, named after the fencer’s blade and built to be just as precise. Winemaking is deliberately restrained. Gentle handling, careful extraction and subtle oak are used to frame the fruit rather than decorate it, allowing site and season to do the talking.

In the glass, the wine is fragrant and lifted. Red cherry, wild strawberry and cranberry lead, followed by rose petal, dried herbs and a whisper of spice. There is a cool, savoury undertone that hints at forest floor and ironstone, giving depth without heaviness.

On the palate, Riposte The Sabre Pinot Noir is medium bodied and beautifully balanced. Bright red fruit flows through a fine, supple mid palate, supported by fresh acidity and powdery tannins that give shape and length. The texture is silky and refined, finishing dry and savoury with lingering red fruit, spice and a subtle mineral edge.

This is a Pinot Noir that shines with food. Roast chicken, duck, pork, mushroom dishes and lighter game are all natural partners. It is drinking beautifully now for its freshness and detail, but will also cellar confidently over five to eight years, gaining more savoury complexity with time.

Riposte by Knappstein The Sabre Pinot Noir is elegant, disciplined and unmistakably Adelaide Hills. A modern Australian Pinot that favours finesse, structure and precision, very much in keeping with its name.