Drake Samson Pinot Noir 2015 Yarra Valley

2015 Drake Samson Pinot Noir – Yarra Valley
This is a collaboration between the Yarra Valley’s Mac Forbes and our own sommelier Matt Dunne. It was born from a shared belief in creating thought-provoking wines of individual character and expression. Drake Samson turns Mac’s normal individual vineyard philosophy on its head, blending the best from specific vineyards to create a style perfect for modern Australian cuisine.
The wine has been sourced from three vineyards – “Yarra Junction” which gives a firm tannin profile and sour cherry notes. The 114 clone from the warmer “Coldstream” vineyard gives palate density but high-toned spicy notes, whilst the “Seville” vineyard fruit again gives aromatic lift and restraint, balancing the firm tannins with crunchy red fruits. There is about 10% whole cluster across the board, providing softer tannins and a great elegance,  with partial foot stooping and both new and old French oak used (Mercurey and Moreau barrels).
Lifted aromatics of red berries, forest undergrowth and high toned spicy notes. The palate displays the classic Mac Forbes interplay between fruit and bright crunchy acid. Medium bodied flavours of ripe cranberry and red berry fruit have sufficient intensity to ensure the wine finishes with a fruit driven flourish.