A new addition for Howard Park. Fruit from Porongurup and Mount Barker sub-regions of Great Southern. WA Pinot Noir is a challenge and there’s only a handful that are able to nail the style. Here we have winemakers familiar with the grape (they have extensive experience in Burgundy with their Marchand & Burch label) and no shortage of enthusiasm.

Howard Park, Flint Rock, Pinot Noir, Great Southern, 2022

Pale garnet. Meaty (fresh pâté) and gun flint nose. A touch of dried flowers, dried strawberry hulls, cherry flesh, burnt orange citrus, crushed gravel and brown spices. Lightly framed and angular. Delicately fruited with an easy brush of tannin. Fine bitter char and citrus through the tail. Quality of winemaking is evident and still thoroughly enjoyable but perhaps a touch too delicate for anything other than immediate consumption (with freshly made duck spring rolls).

RRP: $30
Alc: 13%
Rating: 17.5/20 (90/100)

Wine sample courtesy of Howard Park