Josh says

The Thursday Biff

IT HAS long been the wine cultist go- to variety, and in the past year or so pinot noir has gathered more mainstream and new- generation popularity. But don’t panic about spending a few extra dollars – that’s all part of the trend. OAKRIDGE OVER THE SHOULDER 2013 / Pinot Noir Region: Yarra Valley, Vic Value: Excellent Best with: Duck & veal sausages on polenta $ 22 While pinot noir might be the holy grail for many wine makers, finding half- decent wine at this price is the challenge for everyday consumers. Head this way for a multi- vineyard selection across the whole valley, showing a nice little charry edge and a faint eucalypt lift with fresh and crunchy cherry juice to sip, made a little more solid with just enough tannin structure to encourage the next pour. PIKE & JOYCE 2013 / Pinot Noir Region: Adelaide Hills, SA Value: Worth the extra Best with: Char- grilled flank steak $ 35 One of two offers from this high country Hills label, this all Lenswood fruit is built with a deal more concentration than its entry point, wider sourced sibling, the Rapide ($ 22). The fruit is verging on blacker crimson cherry with fascinating darker spices in play, which offer a more profound complexity that can be appreciated courtesy of clever balancing and well- toned tannins.