2021 TarraWarra Estate Reserve Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

Estate fruit fermented in foudres and matured in a combination of French puncheons and barriques (25% new) for 11 months. A medium ruby crimson. Redolent of wild strawberries, subtle floral notes and Asian spices. It's all there on the palate, too, with excellent depth and persistence and sinewy, gently chewy tannins that will reward with cellar time over the next decade or so.

95 points Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

TarraWarra Estate Reserve Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley, is a flagship expression of one of the region’s most respected vineyards, showing depth, finesse and a strong sense of place. TarraWarra Estate sits in the rolling hills of the Yarra Valley and has long been recognised for its mature vines and meticulous viticulture. The Reserve Pinot Noir is drawn from the estate’s best parcels in exceptional vintages, where low yields and careful fruit selection deliver concentration without sacrificing elegance. The combination of cool climate conditions, elevation and complex soils allows Pinot Noir to ripen slowly, building aromatic detail and fine structure. Winemaking focuses on gentle extraction and thoughtful oak use, allowing the vineyard character to lead rather than dominate.

The colour is a deep yet translucent ruby. Aromatically it is layered and complex, opening with dark cherry, wild strawberry and cranberry, followed by rose petal, dried herbs, spice and an undercurrent of forest floor and savoury earth. The palate is refined and powerful in equal measure, with concentrated red and dark fruit, silky but persistent tannins and a long, flowing line of acidity that carries through the finish. There is a subtle savoury grip and mineral edge that gives the wine seriousness and length, marking it as a Pinot Noir built for both the table and the cellar. It pairs beautifully with duck, quail, venison, mushroom dishes and herb crusted lamb. While approachable with air, it will reward patience over ten to fifteen years, developing greater complexity, spice and tertiary nuance.