Pinot Noir 2022 - Black Market Deal #61417

Tasmania's cool climate and unique terroir create Pinot Noirs with exceptional elegance and complexity. This wine showcases the island's signature style with its medium body, fine tannins, and distinctive earthy minerality from basalt-rich soils. The cooler temperatures allow for slower ripening, developing those beautiful lifted florals and savoury characteristics that distinguish Tasmanian Pinot from warmer climate expressions.

Whole bunch fermentation is a traditional Burgundian technique that adds structural complexity and aromatic lift to Pinot Noir. The stems contribute natural tannins and spicy, herbal notes while creating a more textured mouthfeel. In this wine, the 20% whole bunch component likely enhances those clove and floral characteristics, adding layers of complexity without overwhelming the delicate fruit expression.

This wine is beautifully balanced for both immediate enjoyment and medium-term cellaring. While it's drinking wonderfully now, showing vibrant red fruit and floral notes, it has the structure to develop significantly over 5-6 years. The fine tannins and earthy complexity will integrate further, revealing deeper layers of flavour and enhanced textural sophistication as it matures.

The wine's savoury profile and earthy complexity make it incredibly food-friendly, particularly with dishes that echo its terroir-driven character. Think roasted duck with cherry sauce, mushroom risotto, or aged hard cheeses. The red plum and rhubarb notes also complement pork dishes beautifully, while the fine tannin structure won't overpower lighter proteins like salmon or game birds.

Wild fermentation uses naturally occurring yeasts from the vineyard and winery environment rather than commercial cultured yeasts. This traditional approach often creates more complex, nuanced flavours and can contribute to the wine's distinctive character and sense of place. In this Pinot Noir, wild fermentation likely enhances the earthy complexity and adds subtle textural elements that complement the fruit-driven profile.