2022 Castle Rock Estate Diletti Pinot Noir, Great Southern

Another outstanding Pinot from Castle Rock. Diletti has managed to combine the immense power and flavour of this variety in a very good vintage with a degree of subtle finesse to create a thoroughly beautiful example of Pinot Noir from the Great Southern. The intense strawberry fruits are complemented with a savoury element. Seamless with a fine lingering acidity. Makes quite a statement.

96 points Ray Jordan winepilot.com

Named after the Italian word for delight, Diletti captures the more playful and approachable side of Pinot Noir from one of Western Australia's most respected cool climate producers. Castle Rock Estate has built its reputation in the elevated vineyards of Porongurup, where ancient granite soils and a long, cool growing season create wines of fragrance, finesse and purity. The Diletti range reflects that same regional character in a style designed to be enjoyed young and often.

The 2022 vintage delivered excellent conditions across the Great Southern, producing Pinot Noir with vibrant aromatics and beautifully balanced fruit. Careful handling in the winery has preserved the variety's natural elegance, while subtle oak influence adds texture and complexity without overshadowing the fruit. The result is a wine that sits comfortably between easy drinking charm and serious cool climate pedigree.

Bright ruby red in colour, the bouquet opens with aromas of wild strawberry, red cherry and raspberry layered with notes of rose petal, cinnamon and dried herbs. As the wine evolves in the glass, hints of forest floor and subtle spice emerge, adding further intrigue. The palate is silky and energetic, delivering vibrant red berry fruits supported by fine tannins and fresh acidity. There is an attractive savoury thread running through the wine, while the finish is long, graceful and beautifully refreshing.

This is a wonderful match for duck tacos, grilled salmon, mushroom arancini, roast chicken with thyme or a simple charcuterie board shared among friends. Approachable from release and immensely drinkable, it captures the charm and elegance that have made Great Southern Pinot Noir one of Australia's rising stars.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2030.