95 Raymond Chan - Raymond Chan Wine Reviews

Deep, moderately dense ruby-red colour, lighter on the rim. The nose is softly full and appealing, greeted with ripe and concentrated aromas of black and red cherries, berries and suggestions of plums, unfolding red florals, pepper and herbs. Medium-full bodied, the palate is elegantly presented with concentrated flavours of dark cherries, berries and plums, entwined with black pepper, violet fragrance and a hint of earth. The mouthfeel is smooth, contributed by a soft grip of fine-textured tannin extraction, layering earth and subtle cocoa richness. The palate's weight and concentration reflecting the savoury, earthy elements left a comforting, rich finish. This is a well-made, velvety Pinot Noir with ripe fruit flavours, along with earth and peppery features. Match with slow-cooked beef cheek and venison loin over the next 5+ years. Fruit from Taylor River Vineyard, Omaka. Handpicked, fermented in three open-top fermenters with different portions of whole bunches (0-30%) to 13.5% alc. Basket pressed to barrel, went through MLF in spring. Best barrels selection, aged in oak for 11 months, further aged in tank for 3 months, bottled unfined, unfiltered. Final blend consisted of 22% whole bunch, 33% new oak. Vegan friendly. 19/20 pts (95 pts) Sept 2021 RRP $69.95