Paramoor Macedon Ranges Pinot Noir 2023 

‘MV6 and MV5 clones between 20 and 25 years old. Picked at 12 Baume. Approx. 25% whole bunch fermented. Aged 10 months in Francois Frere, 20% New 12% Alc.’

Despite its 12.5% ABV, the Pinot comes across as supremely ripe, showing lots of confectionery upon opening. With a bit of breathing, the fruit turns darker and more supple – red cherry, strawberry, lots of sour cherry – and some added pepper and a touch of stemminess. In the mouth, the wine glides with abundant silkiness, while the plentiful acidity makes for a lively palate, bringing you back for a second sip. With even more air, the fruit characters turn savoury, and I feel the Pinot still has a few years before it’ll be showing its best, as often happens with this tempestuous and rewarding grape.