Pinot Noir 2020

Located in the Yarra Valley, northeast of Melbourne in the state of Victoria, the Innocent Bystander estate sources its Pinot Noir grapes from a vineyard with a cool climate, influenced by the proximity of the mountains and ocean currents. The soils are predominantly composed of clay, silt, and pebbles, providing good drainage and slow ripening. This mosaic of plots and altitudes allows for the expression of a nuanced palette, where the natural freshness of the fruit is preserved while gaining aromatic complexity.

The grapes for the 2020 Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir are harvested at optimal ripeness and then vinified in tanks with particular attention paid to expressing the fruit and freshness. Maceration is conducted in a way that preserves the finesse of the tannins, before gentle pressing. The wine is then aged in tanks and barrels to maintain a juicy and balanced profile, while adding a touch of complexity, without seeking a dominant oak influence.

This wine reveals notes of red cherry , raspberry , and strawberry , enhanced by floral touches reminiscent of violet and spicy nuances of sweet pepper. Subtle oak accents and a light terroir/mineral character complete the bouquet. On the palate, the wine is supple and juicy, supported by fresh acidity , fine tannins , and a slender finish that leaves an impression of delicacy and balance.

Australia began producing wine more than two centuries ago. This has resulted in a country rich in old vines, multigenerational winemaking families, and a deep-rooted knowledge and respect for craftsmanship. Add to this a thirst for exploration and innovation, a fearless attitude, and a diverse portfolio of 65 wine regions across a wide range of climates, and you have the makings of an extraordinary wine nation. Australia burst onto the export scene in the 1980s and has since been offering the world vibrant, fruity, and exceptionally good-value wines. Until the late 1990s and early 2000s, the history of Australian wine was dominated by examples of Shiraz, Grenache, and overly concentrated red blends. Between these two extremes lies the diverse range of high-quality Australian wines and regional wines that has always existed. Australian viticulture is concentrated primarily along the southern coastline where conditions are cooler. There are four main wine regions, each centered around major cities: Western Australia around Perth, South Australia around Adelaide, Victoria around Melbourne, and New South Wales around Sydney. The country is one of the world's largest wine producers and was the fourth-largest exporter in 2011. This recent development has made Australia one of the most prominent countries for the quality of its wines. You can taste Australian wines throughout the country. Each Australian region has its own grape varieties. Australian wines are defined by their grape variety, unlike French wines, which are defined by their terroir.