Toolangi

E Block Pinot Noir

The E Block—home to 18-year-old vines of the MV6 clone—has been identified as growing the best of the best Pinot Noir Toolangi produces. It is this block which supplies both the Paul’s Lane and this reserve bottling. Specifically, here the fruit is sourced from rows 26 to 45. Hermann's 2019 was partially de-stemmed (60% whole bunch and 40% whole berry) before a short cold soak and then natural fermentation. All up the wine spent four weeks on skins before being pressed to French oak (30% new) for 10 months. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. Like the F Block Chardonnay, this is a wine of stunning class and certainly the finest Toolangi Pinot we have tasted. A pale Pinot colour, a restrained (for now) and floral nose and a palate that is beautifully refined, delicate and structured with a perfect balance of juicy fruit—reminiscent of grenadine, crushed berries, nettle-like spice—just enough powdery tannins, and bright acidity. The finish is perfumed, fresh and salivating. Impossible not to go back quickly for another sip. An outstanding Australian Pinot by any measure and a must-taste.