Irrewarra Pinot Noir 2023

I haven’t tried Irrewarra for a few years and had forgotten what a wonderful set of wines they are. They have the hallmark prettiness of Farr, presumably from ferments with a high proportion of whole berries, the mid palate flesh and weight and the lovely finessed grip of cashmere tannins. The wines offer a gorgeous, pure compote of red and dark fruits and florals. Savoury notes too of spice, cured meat, earth and a ferrous quality. It’s beautiful, but more than that, there’s stuffing, presence and amplitude. The bargain of the Farr stable. Waters Wine Co

Spice grip and char then softness, then more tart bright sinewy notes. The nose is petals and perfume, then darker, richer barrel notes. It has a really lovely aroma. Actually, calling it lovely diminishes it somewhat, this is unique, complex and entirely appealing for those looking for something more from a glass of Pinot Noir. There is a different oak profile maybe, something smokier, something more angular. It really works with this wine, even if I’m wrong about the new oak regime. Whatever it is, be it new or just more present, adds a layer to this wine. The Irrewarra only improves with each vintage, it seems, and this is no different. I sat with this for a little while and those spice notes just kept delivering, and each sip or sniff offered something new and delicious. Ben Knight