Pinot Noir 2020

Originating from the Yarra Valley in the state of Victoria, southeastern Australia, this Pinot Noir comes from vineyards situated primarily on cool, well-drained hillsides. The climate here is more temperate than in other Australian regions, with oceanic influences that promote slow ripening and good natural acidity. The soils, a blend of clay, sand, and volcanic gravel, allow for precise expression of the grape variety, resulting in wines that are aromatic, structured, and balanced—characteristic of this valley renowned for its cool-climate wines.

The grapes for the 2020 Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir are harvested at optimal ripeness and then fermented in tanks with an approach designed to preserve fruit and freshness, using a combination of whole bunches and destemmed berries to provide structure and complexity. Fermentation is conducted at controlled temperatures with gentle extractions. The wine is then aged for several months in oak barrels, some of which are French oak, to refine the tannins, develop subtle spice aromas, and maintain a juicy and balanced profile.

This wine reveals notes of crisp red fruits , Morello cherry , and raspberry , underscored by delicate floral touches of violet and rose petal. Spicy nuances of sweet pepper and clove mingle with a light oakiness reminiscent of cedar and vanilla. The palate offers a supple and juicy texture, fresh acidity, fine and polished tannins, and a taut, flavorful finish that highlights the purity of the fruit.

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.