2020 Principia Pinot Noir, Mornington Peninsula

Alas, no Altior – the flagship – made in 2020, but this is no slouch. Destemmed, wild-yeast fermentation and on skins about 20 days; aged in French oak barriques, 33% new, for 16 months. It feels cool and refreshing across the palate. It’s a lighter wine and compelling. Cherries, pips, blood orange juice and zest with a pleasant chinotto and bitter radicchio flavour in between. Fine tannins and plenty of tangy acidity keep this buoyant and highly drinkable now. JF 13% alc. RRP $45 / Drink 2022–2027 / Principia www.principiawines.com.au