Cobaw Ridge Winery - Original Pinot Noir - 2023

The Original naming refers to the 1995 plantings that first went in the ground at Cobaw Ridge but also aptly describes the Cooper family behind the vines. As with many great wines, the more time spent with it, the more the journey is cinematic, which is particularly apt here. On opening, a seamless, svelte and lighter weight red with dark cherry, caraway seed, Aussie bush elements and white pepper dusted in. The more time open, the more big swirls, the build of savoury elements in hazelnut, garam masala spice, spearmint and amaro-like qualities. The texture opened up somewhat too, more expansive, a spread in the palate on guiding trails of gossamer. There are wines that deliver strict bounds of Olympic performance, precise and at the apex, and then those that build as an expressive performance. The latter here, and we’re better for it. 95 Points Mike Bennie, Wine Front