Pinot Noir usually requires a cool climate to perform at its best to maintain the balance and complexity of this notoriously difficult grape. While not top of mind to those outside of the domestic market, the Yarra Valley, right on the outskirts of Melbourne, is the home of some notable Pinot.  The De Bortoli family are well known for producing interesting Pinots, and some of them are incredible value such as De Bortoli Windy Peak.  Under the Tesco Finest label, this Pinot Noir represents money well spent as it retains all versatility of Pinot Noir with the depth of character that is easy to find in Australian wines if you know where to look.

Wafting out of the glass, aromas of sweetly ripe raspberry, red currant and cherry fruit meld with the more savoury thyme and mushroom. It is an elegant wine that delivers lots of flavour along the long length where it finishes with a hint of charry oak and nutmeg. If you are after a medium bodied, soft and plush wine that will rise to match venison sausages as easily as Sunday’s roast lamb dinner complete with a cheese plate to finish, this makes a good choice.

Producer: De Bortoli
Region: Yarra Valley, Australia
Vintage: 2017
Main Grape: Pinot Noir
Style: Medium bodied red
VinousWomen member reaction: LOVE IT!
Date tasted: February 2017
Food required: no
Where purchased: £11 Tesco