2023 Nashdale Lane MV6 Pinot Noir, Orange

Damson plum, wild rose and Bing cherries. Tonka bean mahogany and espresso coffee. Blackberry leaf. Firm tannins that supply good structural weight. Lingering acidity. Oak is dusty and well integrated. A nice natural style.

91 points Shanteh Wale winecompanion.com.au

Nashdale Lane MV6 Pinot Noir from Orange is a refined, cool-climate red crafted from the revered MV6 clone — known in Australia for producing Pinot with structure, spice and savoury complexity. Grown at high altitude in the volcanic soils of the Orange GI, this wine captures the region’s freshness and purity, showing off Pinot Noir’s more serious and age-worthy side without losing charm or drinkability.

The vineyard sits at around 900 metres above sea level, where cool nights and long ripening periods preserve acidity and fine tannin structure. The MV6 fruit is hand-picked and fermented in small open-top vessels with partial whole bunch inclusion to add aromatic lift and textural grip. Maturation takes place in French oak, around 20 to 30 percent new, for 10 to 12 months, allowing the wine to build savoury depth without masking its brightness.

In the glass, it opens with aromas of red cherry, cranberry, dried rose, spice and subtle undergrowth. The palate is silky and mid-weight, with red berry fruit, earthy spice, fine tannins and a savoury, mineral-driven finish. There’s a touch of whole bunch spice and leafiness that adds detail without dominating.

Food pairing: excellent with duck breast and sour cherry glaze, mushroom and thyme tart, grilled salmon, or a beetroot and goat cheese salad. Pairs well with washed rind or soft bloomy cheeses.

Cellar potential: drinking well now with a gentle decant, but will evolve over 5 to 8 years, gaining more earth and spice complexity.