2019 DCB Wine Pinot Noir

Winemaker Chris Bendle’s day job is at Hoddles Creek Estate but he still finds to time to work on his own venture, DCB wine. His entry level Pinot Noir is a blend of two vineyards in Kangaroo Ground and Woori Yallock, from the Northern and Southernmost points of the Yarra Valley. With a similar ripening period, but distinctly different soils, MV6 pinot noir from both vineyards was picked within a period of 1 week and treated in a near identical manner whilst being kept entirely separate.
Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a bright light red hue. Fragrant aromatics of violets, strawberries, ripe red cherries and subtle anise blossom from the glass trailed by fresh herbs and light spicy cedar. Light across the palate but possessing plenty of intensity, delicious red cherry and strawberry fruits flood the mouth with subtle anise, light forest floor and spicy cedar the undercard. Polished and refined tannin structure finishing with good freshness and a long moreish red fruited aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews….
It comes from two vineyards, one at Kangaroo Ground and one at Woori Yallock, both in the Yarra Valley though pretty much at the extreme opposite ends, north and south.
It somehow manages to be fresh, modern and old school at once. By old school I’m not referring to oak, which is modest here at most, but rather to the fruit profile. It has a macerated feel; it’s built on bass and mid-range more than it is on treble; there’s a suggestion of undergrowth and forest berry to the core of red cherry. It’s neither forward nor backward and that’s not a bad place to be. Special note on this wine’s balance; it’s impeccable. Drink 2021-2026+
93 points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front