2023 ChaLou Quixotic Reserve Pinot Noir, Orange

First reserve release for ChaLou pinot noir; 50% whole bunches. Perfumed lilac and subtle lavender. Black cherries, bilberry and tonka bean. Mulberry stem and juniper. A wash of gentle flowing acidity with silty, fine-grained tannins. Crushed poppy seed, vanilla flecks and cassia bark. A potpourri of magenta florals. A worthy reserve release and showing great promise for the region with this variety.

96 points Special Value Shanteh Wale winecompanion.com.au

A boutique winery committed to sustainable vineyard practices and minimal intervention winemaking, crafts their Quixotic Reserve Pinot Noir with a focus on purity and site expression, delivering a wine that is both refined and complex.

On the palate, Chalou Quixotic Reserve Pinot Noir offers an enticing blend of bright red fruit flavors, including wild strawberries, red cherries, and raspberries, interwoven with earthy undertones and hints of forest floor. Subtle spice notes of clove and star anise, along with a touch of oak influence, add depth and intrigue. The wine’s silky tannins and fresh acidity provide a beautifully balanced structure, leading to a long and elegant finish with lingering notes of dried herbs and a whisper of minerality. Aromatically, it reveals floral hints of rose petals and violets, creating an inviting and sophisticated bouquet.

This Pinot Noir is a versatile food companion, pairing effortlessly with dishes such as roasted duck, grilled salmon, and wild mushroom risotto. Its delicate structure and bright acidity make it an excellent match for charcuterie, light pasta dishes, and soft cheeses like chèvre or brie. Whether enjoyed in its youthful vibrancy or cellared for further development, Chalou Quixotic Reserve Pinot Noir offers an elegant and rewarding drinking experience that captures the essence of Orange’s cool-climate winemaking.