Sidewood Estate Oberlin Pinot Noir 2024
G 94
One of three single clonal releases from Sidewood’s Mappinga Vineyard in Oakbank, there’s a more perfumed aromatic to begin here in the Oberlin variation. Offset then by some earthier tones, though attractive sweet cherry fruit flavours abound, offering a juicy palate with supportive textures and woody spices in the finish. Plenty of interest. Drink now–2032 The Lane Vineyard Estate Syrah 2022 G 94 Open and wonderfully juicy from the first pour. Foot-smashed blackberries, liquorice and mulberry purée. It’s chiselled and spicy, the tannins firm and encompassing – the kind that make your top front teeth stick to your lips. Blood plum skin, hot embers and black olive tapenade follow. The fruit meets a sternness on the palate – serious intent beneath all that generosity. Drink now–2032 Weaver Sauvignon Blanc 2025 G 94 Geoff Weaver is renowned for his light touch with the Sauvignon Blanc grown on his Lenswood estate vineyard. He continues in this manner in 2025, the variety’s usual punchy aromatics tamed into a more spice-laden spectrum with herb flowers (thyme and rosemary) also present. The same applies in the palate, more savoury than tropically fruited, sophisticated and elegant with a sense that further concentration is beginning to build. An outlier, perhaps, in most Sauvignon notions, calm and relaxed in its approach but never lazy, its peppery finish harking all the way back to its unique Hills source. Drink now–2030 Wicks Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2025 G 94 Classic passionfruit but with side hustles of fennel and flint. The palate is well organised with a nice sense of complexity in texture and flavour rather than simple bright sparks of tropical exotica. Hidden pleasures. Drink now–2028 Murdoch Hill Orion Syrah 2023 G 93+ As I write this, the wine’s just a wee baby – not yet ready for the world. Such purity and tightly woven beauty. I’ve got faith it will grow into grandiosity with time. Turned earth, pressed violets and juicy black plums. There’s so much energy and life. The palate follows suit – restrained and fresh, with late-sinking tannins that grab and hold. A beautiful wine to add to the cellar. Definitely decant. Drink now–2040
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The Vintage Journal
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