Yering Station 'Reserve' Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley, Australia

Crafted with precision from the finest parcels of Yarra Valley fruit, the 2021 Yering Station 'Reserve' Pinot Noir is a testament to the region’s reputation for producing world-class Pinot Noir. This reserve bottling is the pinnacle of Yering Station’s Pinot program, sourced from select vineyard blocks and matured with a meticulous balance of new and seasoned French oak. Silky yet structured, it seamlessly intertwines ripe dark cherry, earthy complexity, and finely integrated spice. This is a wine of poise, depth, and incredible aging potential.

Wine Details:

• Winemaker: Brendan Hawker
• Region: Yarra Valley, Australia
• Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
• Vine Age: 5–22 years
• Soil Type: Duplex grey loam over yellow clay
• Harvest Date: February 20 – March 2, 2021
• Yield: 3 tons/acre
• Clone: MV6
• Cultivation: Cane pruned, Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP)
• Fermentation: Open fermenter, 10-day skin contact
• Yeast Type: XPURE, RC212
• Aging: 10 months in 500L French oak puncheons (15% new)
• Alcohol: 13.2%
• pH: 3.48
• Malolactic Fermentation: Yes

Tasting Notes:

Deep garnet red in the glass, the 2021 ‘Reserve’ Pinot Noir immediately draws you in with seductive aromas of dark cherry, yellow plum, and raspberry, layered with tilled earth, fine toast, and a whisper of nutmeg spice. On the palate, it unfolds in waves of complexity, seamlessly balancing fresh and dried fruit with warm, savory spice. Silky and refined, it glides across the tongue like Suzhou silk, carrying an ever-expanding finish that lingers with delicate fruit, finely integrated oak, and a touch of minerality. With vibrant acidity and an elegant tannin structure, this wine is both expressive in its youth and poised for long-term aging.

Awards & Accolades:

The 2021 Yering Station 'Reserve' Pinot Noir has garnered widespread critical acclaim, affirming its status as one of Australia's finest Pinot Noirs.

• 97 Points – Ray Jordan (Wine Pilot, July 2023): Praised for its tremendous presence, firm yet silky tannins, and seamless palate.
• 96 Points – Philip Rich (Halliday Wine Companion, 2023): Noted for its seductive dark fruit, old-vine creaminess, and exceptional aging potential.
• 96 Points – Shanteh Wale (Wine Pilot, 2023): Highlighted for its earthy depth, floral elegance, and energetic acidity.
• 96 Points – Ken Gargett (Wine Pilot, June 2023): Recognized for its brambly complexity, fine tannins, and impressive persistence.
• 95 Points – Huon Hooke (The Real Review, July 2023): Commended for its intense flavor, firm tannins, and promising development with age.
• 94 Points – Ned Goodwin (James Suckling, August 2023): Lauded for its balance of red fruit, spice, and sculpted tannins.
• 92 Points – Angus Hughson (Vinous): Acknowledged for its rich cherry and earthy profile with a lingering mineral finish.

Winemaker’s Background:

Yering Station, Victoria’s first vineyard, has long been at the forefront of Yarra Valley winemaking. With a deep commitment to site expression and sustainable viticulture, their Reserve Pinot Noir represents the highest echelon of their portfolio. Winemaker Brendan Hawker’s dedication to meticulous site selection and nuanced winemaking has resulted in a Pinot Noir that not only reflects the cool climate elegance of Yarra Valley but also showcases the unique character of each vintage.

Serving Suggestions:

Best enjoyed at 55–60°F, this Pinot Noir will shine with elegant dishes such as wild mushroom risotto, roasted duck, or grilled salmon. Its vibrant acidity and silky tannins make it a stunning companion to charcuterie, truffle-infused pasta, or a simple roast chicken. With careful cellaring, this wine will continue to evolve beautifully over the next 10+ years.