Singlefile Wines Single Vineyard Mt Barker Pinot Noir 2023
- 93
- $38
- Drink by: 2024-2032
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West Aussie Pinot continues to emerge into the mainstream, though it is yet to settle on any particular style – maybe it never will, which is fine. This one is very much from the earthy, savoury end of the spectrum. A parcel of fruit was wild fermented in new French oak and then the entire wine spent seven months in French barriques, 30% new. A deep crimson colour, there are notes of dried herbs, red fruits and iron filings. A wine of depth, which is revealing some early complexity and a very supple texture leading to silky tannins on a lingering finish. The palate sees some sweet strawberry notes hidden away, which are most appealing. The longer this spent in the glass, the more I liked it. It will drink well for at least five to eight years.
Ken was born and bred in Brisbane, Queensland. He had a non-trendy, perfectly happy childhood, in a family convinced alcohol meant instant condemnation to Hades. But a break fishing on the Great Barrier Reef, and some good wine, started a serious obsession that eventually took over. It did not stop Ken being chastised later for drinking Pol champagne, disgusted he’d drink anything made by a Cambodian dictator. Now, Ken mostly writes on wine, champagne and spirits for various newspapers, magazines and books, but is perhaps best known for his work in The Courier Mail. He also has a little sideline writing on cigars, fishing, travel and food. When not writing, fly-fishing for trout in NZ or bonefish on the flats of Cuba, travelling or smoking cigars, he is no doubt following a variety of sporting teams – the occasionally glorious Queensland Reds rugby, the dysfunctional Washington Redskins, the dodgy Arsenal and especially revels in the world restored to its proper axis with the return of the Ashes to their rightful home.
