Clonakilla Pinot Noir 2025

John Kirk, founder of Clonakilla, planted Pinot Noir in his vineyards back in 1978, making it some of the earlier plantings in this country. Only 130 vines at the time, but current winemaker and son, Tim, as added to that over the years. When making the wine, Tim uses a mix of whole bunch ferments and whole berries. The final wine is a blend of clones. Pale russet, this is quite a savoury style with notes of red cherries, leaf litter, truffles, raspberries and a character a little like an Asian spice market. There is excellent balance throughout, with focus and length, leading to satiny tannins. On the palate, we see the emergence of gentle notes of anise. Early days at the moment, but this is a cracking Pinot Noir by any standards, which should drink beautifully over the next ten years.