2022 Oakridge "Henk Vineyard" Pinot Noir Yarra Valley Victoria

Yet another delicious, mid-weighted pinot from this stable, reeling off notes of griotte, pulpier blue fruits, strawberry and rhubarb. The tannins are creamy, with a belt of vanilla-pod oak, giving a lasting impression of summer-berry pudding. Layered enough, but hedonistic, such is the fruit. A real crowd-pleaser. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

Vibrant and expressive, the 2022 Oakridge “Henk Vineyard” Pinot Noir is hands-down one of the best values we import from the Southern Hemisphere. With a host of high scores year after year, this wine delivers incredible value for a very reasonable price. Sourced from a single vineyard in the Woori Yallock area of the Yarra Valley, the aspect is north-facing — ideal for fully ripening grapes in the cool climate of the region. The wine is joyously youthful still, bursting with pretty aromas of cherry, raspberry and pomegranate. On the palate the wine is more savory, with faint dried green herbs, turmeric and an almost autumnal element of dried leaves and loam. The finish is long and lingering. Altogether, this is an excellent example of an approachable, ready-to-drink Pinot Noir with refreshing acidity and supple, well-integrated tannins providing backbone. This is so enjoyable on its own but would also be great with appetizers and small bites, or even a wood-fired pizza straight from the oven.