95 Points - Philip Rich
Hoddles Creek Estate is located in the Upper reaches of Victoria's Yarra Valley; an area ideal for producing pristine, cool-climate wines. Since its establishment in 1997, Hoddles Creek have established an enviable reputation, which in the words of James Halliday, "is unchallenged as the producer of the best value pinot noirs in the country".
The 2024 Wickhams Road Pinot Noir is made is an more forward, early drinking style than the Hoddles Creek Estate offering. Made from a combination of upper Yarra Valley and some select block off Hoddles Creek, this is a bright Pinot Noir with vibrant black cherry and berry aromas, the palate is delicious with vibrant cherry and plum notes. With around 20% whole bunches in the ferment and bottled without fining or filtration, this is offers impressive depth and super value-for-money drinking.
"95 Points. When it comes to making (and pricing) his exceptional range of $20 Wickhams Road wines, Franco D'Anna is truly 'The Mailman!' He always delivers. 90% of the fruit comes from Hoddles Creek, which makes this even better value than normal. A light, bright crimson red, there is an appealing hint of reduction which soon gives way to a core of red fruits and some floral notes. More concentrated and structured than the Gippsland, this will still be looking good 5–8 years from now. Bravo! Drink: 2024 - 2032. 13.7% alc"- Philip Rich, winecompanion.com.au.
