This is Castle Rock Estate’s flagship Pinot Noir, named in honour of the founders Angelo and Wendy Diletti. 27% Whole bunches in the ferment, and then 10 months maturation in French oak (18% new) on medium lees. The final blend was a barrel selection from several small batches.

Castle Rock Estate, a&w, Pinot Noir, Porongurup, 2023

Medium ruby-garnet hue. Intense and profound with dark berries, plum and fig the fruit base for savoury char, blood orange, earthy roast root veg, sweaty brown spice, dark chocolate, damp undergrowth and crushed kitchen herbs. Such a silken, flowing thing. Effortless, with understated texture from sublime tannins that support a long, long finish punctuated with fine spice and energy. Arguably in the echelon of WA’s best Pinot Noirs.

RRP: $57
Alc: 13.3%
Rating: 95/100

Wine sample courtesy of Castle Rock Estate and Define Wine