Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2019

“…Bannockburn produces outstanding wines across the range, all with individuality, style, great complexity and depth of flavour. The low-yielding estate vineyards play their role. Winemaker Michael Glover is determined to enhance the reputation of Bannockburn.” James Halliday

"Primarily clone MV6 planted in 1976; 20% whole bunch, matured in Troncais hogheads (25% new) for 10 months. Bright colour; the bouquet fragrant to the point of perfumed: violets, rose petals, earth and forest floor, dark cherry/ berry at the core; long, lingering savoury finish, drink to 2039." 97pts - James Halliday - The Weekend Australian

The 2019 was drawn from batches of Pinot Noir from several different blocks planted in 1976, 1997 and 2007. The soils of all these blocks are volcanic loam and dark clay over a limestone clay base. All the fruit was fermented with indigenous yeast, with just 20% whole bunches left in the ferment. Élevage played out for 10 months, primarily in Tronçais hogsheads (25% new). It's a sappy, intensely red-fruited and very earthy Pinot with real depth and balance. Layered and deliciously approachable at the same time, with savoury complexity and drive.

"Medium red colour with tints of purple and black, the bouquet char-oaky, smoky, stemmy and bunchy, and more appealing than that may sound. The palate is rich and full, with loads of detail and nuance, heaps of interest, the palate full and rich, round and very fruit-sweet at the core, with Campari, balsamic herbs—the full whole-bunch deal. Long finish, too. A satisfying pinot. Good value, too." 96pts - Huon Hooke - The Real Review