Montalto Main Ridge Pinot Noir 2013

Tasted single blind in amongst a trio of three Montalto single-vineyard Pinots Noir. So, wine identities are known, but hidden at the point of tasting. Why? Because I can and to keep me on my toes.

Clone: DSV12
Vineyard Profile: Red clay loam
Aspect: 156m on a North-East facing slope

Aromatic spice clearly evident here: sandalwood, possibly some ground coriander, 'brown' spice a safer bet; dark cherry, black fruit - certainly a more concentrated aromatic profile beyond the spice.

Tannin structure is exquisite here too - mineral, acid a little sharper - suggestive of a cooler site? - but balance of these elements sees a wine that is assured. Has the structure and potential to be long-lived, the longest of the three in my humble.

Again the line here is excellent, barely putting a foot out of place. It sweetens up on the finish showing a little macerated strawberry. But, by jove it's another stunner. Points aside, possibly my favourite of the three. 94

Tasted on: Sunday 15th February, a Fruit day
Source: Sample
Price: $65
Alcohol: 13.7%
Closure: Screwcap
Website: http://montalto.com.au/

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