Curly Flat Macedon Ranges Central Pinot Noir 2023

The Central block, planted on rare volcanic rock (called Hawaiite for those budding geologists out there), comprises Curly Flat’s oldest vines, planted 1992. Traditionally, the block supplies aromatics and “detailed” tannins to its Pinot. That’s a big tick on both with the ’23 where pressed flowers join dried herbs, red cherries and vanillin oak. Unlike the Western block which sees no new oak, the role of new oak is noted here (24%) together with its accompanying tannin drive, length and high astringent dryness to close. But it is the aromatics which continue to capture your interest with rosehip and rose-pressed flowers mingling with red fruits, dried leaves, earth and sour cherry. A little bit arms and legs at this early stage but everything is in place for a bright future.