Wines of the Month

2011 Toolangi Pinot Noir

Yarra Valley, Victoria

The gentle rolling hills of the Yarra are well known for producing some of Australia’s finest and most exciting wines. And this pinot certainly is no slouch in either finesse or excitement. Neither is the Toolangi Estate Chardonnay ($40) which offers plenty of interest in its luxuriously creamy depths.

This wine is for lovers of good pinot that is affordable, quaffable and foodable. Its fresh raspberry and strawberry fruit is ebullient and the delicate mushroom and dried herbs do not temper any of its vivacity. While some Aussie pinots slouch into dry red proportions, this red remains proudly pinotesque in stature – elegantly medium bodied, fresh acid and a soft, smooth texture.

Drink it now or over the next couple of years, it is a wine that is good with or without food. It is a versatile style that would effortlessly meet the demands of a cheese roulade wrapped around spicy chorizo and shallots for lunch or seared tuna for dinner with equal aplomb.

Value: $26

www.toolangi.com

 

 

© Lisa Johnston July 2013

Wine Diva Wines of the Month, October 2013