2025 Timo Mayer Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

From densely planted rows on the steep Bloody Hill vineyard comes a Pinot Noir that perfectly captures Timo Mayer’s restless energy and cult following. The Close Planted bottling is sourced from tightly spaced vines that naturally restrict vigour and yields, concentrating flavour and structure. Timo Mayer, the German born, minimal intervention vigneron behind these sought after wines, is known for generous whole bunch fermentation, wild ferments and a fearless commitment to texture and vibrancy. His releases are small, highly allocated and regularly sell out quickly, reinforcing their cult status among Yarra Valley Pinot Noir collectors.

In the glass the colour is bright ruby with vivid crimson edges, translucent yet intense. Aromatically it is lifted and complex, showing wild strawberry, red cherry and blood orange intertwined with rose petal, white pepper and dried herbs. The whole bunch component brings an aromatic flourish of spice and stem complexity, adding tension and intrigue.

The palate is medium bodied but firmly structured, driven by bright acidity and finely etched tannins. Red berry fruit sits at the core, framed by savoury spice, subtle forest floor and a mineral line that gives focus and length. There is both energy and grip here, with the dense planting translating to depth and persistence rather than weight. The finish is long, savoury and distinctly cool climate in character.

Pair with roast duck, grilled quail, pork belly with cherry glaze or mushroom and thyme dishes. While thrilling in its youth for perfume and vitality, this wine will cellar confidently for twelve to fifteen years, developing layers of dried rose, truffle and savoury complexity.