Pinot Noir Reserve 2021 – Yering Station

The Pinot Noir Reserve 2021 from Yering Station is a profound expression of craftsmanship and terroir, a wine that encapsulates the pinnacle of what the Yarra Valley can offer to the world of Pinot Noir. This Reserve stands as a beacon of the winery’s dedication to excellence, showcasing the meticulous care, sustainable practices, and the passionate pursuit of capturing the essence of the varietal in its most elevated form. The Reserve label is reserved for those wines that exemplify the best of Yering Station’s vineyards, a commitment that is vividly realized in this exceptional 2021 vintage.

Located in the cool, verdant reaches of the Yarra Valley, Yering Station benefits from a microclimate that is ideally suited for the cultivation of Pinot Noir, a varietal known for its sensitivity and expressive nature. The region’s cool temperatures, moderated by the gentle influence of the Southern Ocean breezes, along with its rich, diverse soil composition, provide a foundation for growing grapes that embody complexity and depth. The 2021 vintage was particularly notable for its favorable growing conditions, which allowed the Pinot Noir grapes to develop with a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness, ripe flavors, and aromatic intensity.

Yering Station approaches the cultivation of its Reserve Pinot Noir with an ethos of harmony between the vine and its environment, employing organic and biodynamic practices to ensure the health and vitality of the vineyard. The selection process for the Reserve is rigorous, with grapes handpicked from the estate’s most distinguished blocks, chosen for their superior quality and expression of terroir. This careful stewardship from vine to bottle is reflective of Yering Station’s commitment to authenticity and excellence.

The winemaking process for the Pinot Noir Reserve 2021 is characterized by an attention to detail that borders on the reverential. Following a gentle pressing, the juice is fermented with indigenous yeasts, a choice that underscores the winery’s dedication to showcasing the natural character and purity of the fruit. Aging in French oak barrels, meticulously selected for their quality and compatibility with the varietal, lends the wine a subtle structure and complexity without overpowering its delicate nuances. This careful integration of oak is testament to the winery’s skill in elevating the wine’s profile while maintaining its varietal integrity.

Upon tasting, the Pinot Noir Reserve 2021 unveils a richness and elegance that is immediately captivating. Its color is a deep, luminous ruby, heralding the layers of complexity that await. The nose is a symphony of aromatics, with notes of ripe red berries, cherries, and plums, interwoven with hints of violets, forest floor, and a refined spiciness that hints at the wine’s oak maturation. The aroma profile is both profound and inviting, promising a palate that is equally expressive.

On the palate, the wine unfolds with a remarkable finesse, its silky tannins and vibrant acidity framing a rich tapestry of flavors that echo the aromatic complexity. The fruit is lush yet nuanced, balanced by a minerality and depth that speaks to the Yarra Valley’s unique terroir. The finish is long and memorable, leaving an enduring impression of the wine’s elegance and the artisanal craftsmanship behind its creation.

The Pinot Noir Reserve 2021 is not merely a wine; it is an experience, an exploration of the depth and diversity of Pinot Noir when nurtured in an environment as conducive to its expression as the Yarra Valley. It stands as a testament to Yering Station’s legacy of winemaking excellence, inviting connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike to savor the nuanced beauty of Australian Pinot Noir at its best. This wine is a celebration of terroir, tradition, and the unending pursuit of perfection, making it a must-try for those seeking to experience the pinnacle of Yering Station’s winemaking artistry.