2024 Mandala Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

The Mandala Pinot Noir from the Yarra Valley is a sophisticated cool-climate wine, showcasing the elegance and complexity that Pinot Noir is renowned for. Mandala Wines, a family-run estate established in 1999, is dedicated to producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Yarra Valley, one of Australia's premier wine regions.

The grapes for this Pinot Noir are sourced from Mandala’s meticulously managed estate vineyards. The Yarra Valley’s cool climate, influenced by its rolling hills and proximity to ocean breezes, allows the Pinot Noir to ripen slowly, resulting in vibrant fruit flavors and balanced acidity.

Winemaking emphasizes a gentle and natural approach to preserve the varietal’s delicate nuances. The wine is fermented in small batches, often incorporating whole bunches to add complexity and structure. It is then aged in French oak barrels, with careful selection of new and seasoned oak to enhance depth while maintaining the purity of the fruit.

The Mandala Pinot Noir opens with enticing aromas of red cherry, cranberry, and wild strawberry, interwoven with subtle floral notes of violet and hints of spice and forest floor. The palate is medium-bodied and silky, with flavors of juicy red fruits, a touch of savory earthiness, and fine-grained tannins. A lively acidity carries the wine to a long, elegant finish.

This versatile Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roasted duck, seared salmon, or mushroom-based dishes. While delightful in its youth, it also has the potential to age gracefully over the next 5-7 years, developing further complexity and finesse.