Named after founder Charles Smedley’s grandmother, who “sent a vision of rolling hills and vines to Charles’ mother in a dream ahead of the family’s first visit to the Dixon’s Creek vineyard in 2006.” A blend of pinot noir clones: 114, 115 and MV6. Grown in the Upper Yarra Valley at Yarra Junction. 50% new French Oak barrique maturation, the remainder 25% each one and two year old.

Mandala, The Prophet, Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley, 2014

Opens with smoky, warming flavours (like a iron being turned on) leads into perfumed purple flowers, pippy cherry, subtle cassis and hints of vanilla bean richness. Some maturity creeping in with mulchy fallen foliage, savoury walnut and rich plum notes. The tannins are still firm and grip well; the acidity still sharp and providing a springboard for a few more years of elegant development.

RRP: $50
Alc: 11.8%
Rating: 17.5/20

Wine sample courtesy of Mandala Wines