95 Points - Jeni Port
Bannockburn Vineyards was established by the late Stuart Hooper in 1974; his vision was to create a vineyard which would produce Australian wine of a quality to emulate the great wines of France, in particular top-line Burgundies. Bannockburn continues to realise Hooper's vision under winemaker Matthew Holmes who commenced making wine at Bannockburn in 2015.
The 2021 Bannockburn Pinot Noir was drawn from batches of Pinot Noir from several different blocks planted in 1976, 1997 and 2007. As reflective of the cooler growing season in 2021, this is a lighter and brighter expression of Bannockburn Pinot Noir.
Displaying pure red fruits, aromatic spices, subtle use of whole bunch and oak seasoning, and a moderate tannin finish. Immediately enjoyable with impressive complexity, this is another top line Bannockburn Pinot Noir that will reward medium term ageing in cellar.
"95 Points. Batches of pinot noir from different blocks, wild fermented with 20% whole bunches. Matured 10 months in French hogsheads (25% new). A wine of real gravitas and presence, the '21 reflects a most impressive year. Abundant, enticing aromas in pristine red fruits, maritime herbs, humus and dusty beets. The palate fairly bristles in fruit freshness and energy, the tannins pricking the tastebuds and laying the foundation for a long life. Oak? Yes, it's evident in the texture and the binding but totally integrated. $69. 13.5% alc. Drink by 2033. Screw cap"- Jeni Port, winecompanion.com.au.
"94+ Points. This is a beauty. Fragrant and attractive from the outset but then expansive on the palate as well. Earth, twigs, root vegetables and cherries with woodsy spice notes rippling throughout. Tension and flow, texture and tannin. There’s a smoky meatiness to the aftertaste, mixed in with decaying red roses, and it’s most attractive way for the wine to sail out. Drink it now, drink it later; it will deliver. Tasted: Apr22 13.5% alc. $67 Screwcap Drink: 2023 - 2030+"- Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front.
