2017 Santolin Gruyere Pinot Noir

In 2012 husband and wife duo, Adrian and Rebecca Santolin, having already spent almost half their lives in the wine industry decided to buy one barrel, one tank and two tonne of pinot noir grapes to launch their dream of living life loving what they do.
This wine is produced from fruit grown on a single block in the Syme on Yarra Vineyard, Gruyere. This block is located approximately 150m above sea level and covers some of the most uniform clay loam soil profiles across the whole vineyard. Twenty five percent of the wine underwent whole bunch fermentation and maturation took place in French oak of which 35% was new for a period of 10 months.
Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. Spiralling out of the glass are intense aromatics of violet, dark cherry, strawberry, subtle clove and anise followed by some smoky cedar, forest floor and spice notes. Cascading across the palate is a delicious array of ripe dark cherry and strawberry fruits which show great power. Supple in its texture notions of dried clove, forest floor, traces of anise and spice are also present. Seamlessly integrated, silky smooth tannins melt into a very polished aftertaste of superb depth.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews….
From a single block on the Syme-on-Yarra Vineyard, 25% whole bunches, 75% whole berries, 14-day cold soak, wild-fermented, matured in French oak (35% new) for 10 months. The whole bunch has been upscaled from that of its Gladysdale sibling, but the extra depth to the cherry/plum fruit more than copes. This is a most attractive wine. Drink by 2029.
95 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion