Mr Riggs Valerie Pinot Noir 2023

Though based in McLaren Vale, winemaker Ben Riggs heads into the neighbouring, cooler climate Hills region, specifically a vineyard in the Woodside district, to add a Pinot Noir to his portfolio. He’s named it after his mum Valerie, “reflective of its namesake, elegant and refined with fine structure and power,” he says. How this translates to the glass is the big question, taking in 10% whole bunch in fermentation and 20% new French oak for just 6 months, encouraging aromatics of crushed red berries and darker cherry, plus herbed notes with a subtle sense of mint followed by a fruit-forward palate and soft, gentle finish. Perhaps in the winemaker’s reflection he could have added Valerie was a most friendly and welcoming host, especially at her lunch and dinner table.