Pinot noir

2021 Castle Rock Estate Diletti Pinot Noir, Porongurup

Castle Rock Estate has been wooing us for years with its Diletti Chardonnay and Diletti Riesling, and now we have a pinot noir to swoon over. As James Halliday writes, “It’s an amazing wine, with a palate of extreme intensity and silky length. Cherries, rose petals, mouth-watering savoury tannins, all in balance and harmony.” CM

97 points, $46.

2022 Mayer Bloody Hill Villages Coldstream Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

Gorgeous from the outset with aromas of violets, red cherries and lavender. Some strawberry sherbet even. Pure fruited and fine boned, this elegant and gently sinewy wine is a pleasure to drink now but has the structure to improve over the next few years. PR

96 points, $38

2021 Oakridge Wines Vineyard Series Willowlake Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

The Willowlake vineyard was one of the first to venture to the Upper Yarra. Balance is the key word for this beautiful pinot, the red cherry/ berry fragrance is mirrored by the palate, where delicate but clear savoury notes of spice are woven through the red fruit palate and aftertaste. JH

97 points, $45

2022 Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

Wonderfully perfumed and vibrant with its aromas of cranberries, wild strawberries, a little Sichuan pepper, fresh citrus oil and musk roses at dusk. A wine of exquisite finesse and excellent depth, the tannins are very fine and long, as is the finish. This will provide much enjoyment over the next decade or so. PR

97 points, $90