Castle Rock A&W Pinot Noir 2022

The prestige release in the Castle Rock Pinot trio, this shows how the grape has gone from curiosity to contender in the West. Indeed, this is the pick of the best set of Pinots I have seen released from WA. The aim here was to showcase CR’s best Pinot from their oldest block, planted in 1986. 32% whole bunch contribution, the wine is matured in French oak, 23% new, with the final blend a barrel selection. Deep red, this is a sleek, refined, seductive and exceptional Pinot. Notes of tobacco leaves, warm earth, dark cherries, new leather and root vegetables which all comes together in a rather luxurious package. There is fine acidity, silky tannins and yet firm grip, good length and serious persistence so it will drink beautifully over the next decade.