Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2018

The evolution of Bannockburn's Estate Pinot continues unabated under Matt Holmes' tenure. The 2017 was drawn from batches of Pinot Noir from different blocks planted in 1976, 1997 and 2007--including the perennial sources of the Olive Tree Hill Vineyard and Ann's Block. It also includes a dollop of Pinot from the close-planted De La Terre parcel. All the fruit was fermented with indigenous yeast, with just 20% whole bunches left in the ferment. Élevage played out for 12 months in primarily Tronçais and Bertranges hogsheads (30% new), followed by a spell in older barriques. Expect lifted red fruits and savoury forest floor on the nose, a textural palate with bright acidity and fine-spun tannin.

"A great representation of a great vintage that unites tang and spice, this is a Bannockburn of definition, focus and determination. It's a pretty style, fragranced with potpourri and Chinese five spice lingering with outstanding persistence. Fantastic, fine chalk mineral tannins and vibrant acidity will sustain it long." 94 points, Tyson Stelzer, Wine Business Magazine

"Burnished garnet and already moving away from the bright fruit notes of youth to its plateau of autumn leaf, brown spices and savoury nature. 20% whole bunches adds both fragrance and structure, the acidity ensuring that it will hold for many years in tandem with the fine chalky tannins." 93 points, David Bicknell, Winecompanion.com.au

Country: Australia
Region: Geelong