Simple young pinot noir can be fresh, lively and charming, but most benefit from time in bottle for the components to integrate and develop complexity.
BEST VALUE
$20
Three and a half stars (out of five)
Good value
Attractive aromas suggesting cherry and spice, with sweet but peppery red fruits supported by spicy oak and a lively finish.
$35
Four stars
Good value
At three years old this is mellowed and spicy, concentrated with dark undertones, a charming silky texture and a fresh, youthful finish. Drinking nicely now.
$32
Three and a half stars
Average value
Warm and spicy with attractive fruit, a silky texture, lively backbone and firm, fine-grained tannins. Simple and charming.
$55
Foour stars
Average value
A powerful wine from Bendigo with sweet fruit, savoury undertones, spicy oak, and firm, well-structured tannins finishing with a youthful crispness. Although three years old, it will develop for another couple of years at least.
$42
Three and a half stars
Below average value
Lots of flavour - dried herbs, dried fruits, hints of strawberries and cherries - lots of spicy oak, a silky texture and lively finish.
$45
Four stars
Average value
A youthful wine, opulent with hints of cherries and red fruits, spicy oak, darker undertones and a silky texture, charming and harmonious yet with power underneath and a lingering finish. Another year or two will see it develop more complexity.
ANOTHER GLASS
Julicher 99 Rows Martinborough Pinot Noir 2012
$32
Below average value
A light, peppery wine with hints of mineral, confect fruit, leafy hints, lots of oak and a lively, edgy finish.
