Oakridge Hazeldene Pinot Noir 2024

The Vineyard Series offers mirror images of the same vineyards in the Yarra Valley for both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Always fascinating to see which variety really steps up. The 2024 vintage has provided us with a photo finish, although the nod probably goes to Chardonnay by a wafer-thin margin. That certainly doesn’t mean there aren’t some brilliant Pinots on offer, none more so than this stunning wine. Fermentation is by way of a combination of whole bunches and berries in open containers for two weeks before eleven months maturing in French oak. Pale crimson with a russet rim, this offers a beautifully fragrant nose with notes of florals, raspberries, dried herbs, cherries, spices, notably nutmeg and cinnamon, and kirsch. A Pinot Noir of finesse and focus, this is superbly balanced with impressive length. Like one imagines drinking silk would be. And such persistence. For enjoying over the next seven to ten years.