Pinot Noir 2017 - Black Market Deal #51525

This refers to the winemaking technique of including grape stems during fermentation, which adds structure and tannins without creating harsh, green flavours. When done skillfully with fully ripe fruit, stem inclusion can contribute earthy complexity and a silky texture that enhances rather than detracts from the wine's elegance. The fact that this wine achieves this balance while maintaining pristine fruit character demonstrates exceptional winemaking.

Tasmania's cool climate and pristine environment create ideal conditions for Pinot Noir, allowing for slow ripening that develops complex flavours while retaining natural acidity. The island's unique terroir produces wines with exceptional purity of fruit and elegant structure, often displaying the earthy, mushroom-like characteristics found in this wine. Tasmania has rapidly gained recognition as one of Australia's premier Pinot Noir regions.

After six years of bottle age, this Pinot Noir has evolved from primary fruit flavours into more complex secondary characteristics, with the earthy and mushroom notes becoming more pronounced. The well-integrated oak mentioned in the description suggests the wine has reached an optimal drinking window where all elements are harmoniously balanced. The extended palate finish indicates the wine has developed the depth and complexity that comes with proper cellaring.

A 96-point rating from Wine Orbit represents exceptional quality, placing this wine in the 'outstanding' category where only the finest examples achieve such scores. Wine Orbit is a respected Australian wine publication, and this score indicates the wine demonstrates remarkable complexity, balance, and aging potential. Combined with multiple other high ratings, it confirms this is a benchmark example of Tasmanian Pinot Noir.

The wine's earthy, mushroom characteristics and sour cherry notes make it perfect for duck breast with cherry sauce or mushroom risotto. Its light body and elegant structure also pair beautifully with salmon, particularly when prepared with herbs, or aged cheeses like gruyere. The wine's pristine fruit and well-integrated tannins won't overpower delicate dishes while providing enough complexity to enhance richer preparations.