2024 Empire of Dirt Going Like Elsie Pinot Noir, Geelong

Empire of Dirt Going Like Elsie Pinot Noir from Geelong, Australia, is a wine that speaks to both the soul and the palate. Known for its distinctive and bold expressions, Empire of Dirt is a winery with a message. Founded by a group of passionate individuals with a clear vision, the winery aims to craft wines that challenge conventions while remaining deeply rooted in quality. Their focus is on producing wines that highlight the beauty and uniqueness of the Geelong region, and the "Going Like Elsie" Pinot Noir is a perfect example of this.

The winery’s ethos revolves around sustainability, minimal intervention winemaking, and embracing individuality. Empire of Dirt’s commitment to eco-friendly practices and respect for nature shines through in their wines, which are crafted with care and a deep sense of responsibility. The name "Going Like Elsie" is a playful yet meaningful tribute to a sense of determination and spirit, reminiscent of a well-loved family member—strong, enduring, and full of life. The wine itself reflects this character with its layered flavors and elegant structure.

The winemaker behind Empire of Dirt is Tom McCarthy, whose experience spans across several prominent wine regions of Australia and abroad. Tom brings a refined yet unorthodox approach to winemaking, creating wines that are both expressive and nuanced. His philosophy centers on allowing the fruit to speak for itself, with as little manipulation as possible. With a deep understanding of Geelong’s cool-climate conditions and diverse terroir, Tom crafts wines that are full of character, balancing complexity with freshness.

The "Going Like Elsie" Pinot Noir has a striking ruby color, rich and radiant, with a slight violet hue that hints at its vibrant, youthful energy. The nose is an aromatic tapestry of ripe strawberries, cherries, and raspberries, complemented by undertones of earthy forest floor, delicate spice, and a subtle smokiness. A light whiff of oak provides an additional layer of complexity, giving the wine a refined character without overwhelming its natural fruit expression.

On the palate, this Pinot Noir is medium-bodied, with a perfect balance between richness and elegance. The fruit flavors are fresh and vibrant, with bright red berries at the forefront. The wine is beautifully structured, with silky tannins that support the wine’s delicate acidity, creating a smooth and well-rounded mouthfeel. There are hints of earthy spice and a touch of vanilla from the oak, which adds depth without dominating the fruit character. The finish is clean and refreshing, leaving behind a lingering note of ripe cherry and spice.

"Going Like Elsie" is an ideal wine for pairing with a wide range of dishes. It’s excellent with roasted meats, such as duck or lamb, and it pairs beautifully with earthy mushroom dishes or soft cheeses like camembert or brie.