2023 Mac Forbes Yarra Junction Village Pinot Noir

The  Yarra Junction Village Pinot Noir hails from one of the Yarra Valley’s higher and cooler sites. Located in a small, east-facing valley running from Yarra Junction to Poweltown, this vineyard benefits from grey loam soils with underlying silt and cooler winds from the Yarra River.

Protected by surrounding mountains, the site enjoys a late ripening season, resulting in grapes with thicker skins and higher acidity that translate into a Pinot Noir with remarkable structure and finesse.

This Pinot Noir is a study in contrasts—bright and aromatic with summer florals and fresh red berries, yet underpinned by a more serious, structured palate. The wine reveals a dense core of red fruits, complemented by a burst of blood orange and wrapped in tactile, mealy tannins. A hint of sappy spice lifts the finish, adding an extra layer of complexity to this already intriguing wine. The challenging vintage, marked by heavy rains and lower yields, has only intensified the depth and detail of this release from Mac.

This sang at a recent tasting, so high-toned, with some amaro/negroni twang. An exquisitely elegant wine, deft and flavoursome with bouncy red berry fruits, a nice herbal element, and Mac's typical pale, sensual palate.

96 points
"A bright ruby red. A core of red and black fruits laced with blood orange and a little spice. You barely notice the whole bunches. Really fresh and brightly structured on the palate. This will be a cracking wine in another six or so months."
- Philip Rich (Halliday Wine Companion)