2023 Empire of Dirt Fuck the Patriarchy Pinot Noir, Geelong

Empire of Dirt is a small, independent winery known for its unconventional approach, producing wines that are as much about making a statement as they are about quality winemaking. The provocative name, "Fuck the Patriarchy," is a nod to the winery’s ethos of challenging the status quo, reflecting a spirit of independence and defiance.

Geelong, located in Victoria, Australia, is renowned for its cool-climate winemaking, particularly for Pinot Noir, which thrives in the region’s moderate temperatures and varied soils. The Geelong wine region produces Pinot Noirs that are known for their complexity, elegance, and depth, and this wine is no exception.

You can expect a wine that balances fruit-driven intensity with earthiness and spice. On the nose, it reveals aromas of ripe red cherries, strawberries, and cranberries, alongside subtle floral notes and a hint of wild herbs. The palate is bright and juicy, offering red fruit flavors with underlying notes of forest floor, black tea, and a touch of spice, likely from minimal oak influence. The wine’s acidity is lively, giving it a fresh, vibrant character, while the tannins are fine and soft, adding structure without overpowering the fruit.

This Pinot Noir is designed to be approachable and drinkable, yet it carries a depth and complexity that make it stand out. The wine’s rebellious branding aligns with its unconventional winemaking style—minimal intervention in the vineyard and winery allows the true expression of Geelong’s terroir to shine through. This wine is perfect for those looking for something different, whether in terms of philosophy, style, or taste.