1998 Yarra Valley Hills Warranwood Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is a low pigment varietal, that is to say the colour is difficult to extract, and that's why many of the wines appear to be pre- maturely aged. Wine maker, Martin Williams has discovered that subjecting the grapes to a 'cold bath' prior to ferment assists with colour extraction and creates additional complexity in the wine. Excellent colour - deep crimson with a hint of mauve. The nose is equally impressive, lifted, with pronounced varietal character, supported by a judicious dose of troncais oak which is then followed by a smoky bacon aroma. Full flavoured palate with impressive complexity, length and power of flavour. Fine grained tannins, firmer than required, however, in good balance followed by long cherry, troncais oak and spice aftertaste. Cellar 5 years.
Retasted 9/2/01
Medium body, with brick red colour. The nose is appealing with aromas of cherry and stewed fruits followed by hints of game, strawberry and spice. On the palate, the cherry and spice flavours are to the forefront over a toasted oak background. There is distinct varietal character on the palate and a definite stalky element which persists long into the aftertaste. Fine grained, firmish, but balanced tannins. Cellar 1-2 years.

RATING: 79/100

VALUE: XXX/5