Curly Flat Pinot Noir 2022

This wine earned exceptional scores (95-96 points) because it represents a masterclass in Pinot Noir complexity, crafted from eleven distinct vineyard parcels across the Macedon Ranges. The meticulous approach of using indigenous yeasts, varied whole bunch inclusion, and tailored oak treatments for each block creates layers of flavour that showcase true terroir expression. The combination of charred, grassy, and sour cherry notes reflects the diverse soils, clones, and aspects that contribute to its remarkable depth.

The Macedon Ranges' cool climate and elevated vineyards create perfect conditions for elegant, lighter-bodied Pinot Noir like this 2022 vintage. The region's varied soils and aspects allow producers like Curly Flat to craft wines with natural acidity and delicate structure, avoiding the over-ripeness that can plague warmer regions. This terroir-driven approach results in wines that age gracefully while maintaining the grape's inherent finesse and complexity.

Whole bunch fermentation involves including grape stems during fermentation, adding structural tannins and aromatic complexity to the wine. Curly Flat's selective use of this technique across their eleven vineyard lots contributes to the wine's grassy notes and adds a savoury backbone that complements the sour cherry fruit flavours. This traditional Burgundian technique enhances the wine's ability to express individual site characteristics while building age-worthy structure.

Serve this elegant, light-bodied Pinot Noir slightly below room temperature (14-16°C) to highlight its delicate aromatics and charred, grassy complexity. The wine's refined structure pairs beautifully with duck, game birds, or mushroom-based dishes that won't overpower its nuanced sour cherry flavours. Consider decanting 30 minutes before serving to allow the wine's terroir-driven characteristics to fully express themselves.

With its foundation of eleven carefully selected vineyard lots and extended skin contact during production, this Pinot Noir has excellent ageing potential of 8-12 years. The indigenous yeast fermentation and tailored oak regimes provide the structural backbone necessary for graceful development, while the wine's current charred and grassy notes will evolve into more complex earthy and forest floor characteristics. The high critic scores suggest this wine will reward patient cellaring.