2023 Auburn Pinot Noir

This wine is a blend of G8V3, D5V12, and Pommard clones. Our Pinot blocks were harvested over 10-day period in late March and hand-sorted into 3- and 4-tonne stainless steel open-top fermenters. 25% whole-bunches were included to build structure and aromatic complexity in the finished wines. The must was pumped over twice/day during peak fermentation, with occasional punch downs to break up the cap. The wines spent an average of two weeks on skins prior to pressing, and matured in a mix of 10% new French oak (Taransaud and Francois Frere) for 10 months.

'This is captivating and inviting on the nose with ripe cherry, dried herb, smoked game, mixed spice, and toasted almond characters. The palate is equally satisfying with excellent weight and textured mouthfeel, superbly framed by fine, grainy tannins. Firm and structured, while remaining elegant and balanced with a sustained, complex finish.'

95 points, Sam Kim, Wine Orbit

'Plenty of varietal definition and detail to explore in this young Pinot from the Tamar Valley.  It marries the lightly savoury with the sweet fruited in one breezy, medium-bodied Pinot Noir. Ripe cranberry, cherry, plum with Aussie bush scents, dried herbs and earth are interspersed with rose florals, the latter offering a particularly attractive lasting refrain. Lifted and aromatic, spice-fuelled and red fruited, the palate is supported and enhanced by clean, crisp acid. The fruit here is so good, I would be inclined to enjoy it sooner rather than later.'

93 points, Jeni Port, Winepilot

'Tasmania and Pinot Noir go together like tomato and basil. The place has a natural affinity for the variety, perhaps more of a natural fit than anywhere on mainland Australia, although I am sure there will be much discussion about that. Still, the 2023 Auburn Pinot Noir leads with a nose of saturated raspberries, poached strawberry, sweet red apple skins, forest floor, moss and tapenade. There is depth and density here, albeit folded into the curves of the fruit. The tannins are chalky and supple and serve to provide structure and shape, even gentle chew. It's a lovely wine from this little producer up in the Tamar Valley north of Launceston. Highly recommended.'

93 points, Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate