Coldstream Hills Yarra Valley Pinot Noir 2020

Coldstream Hills was established in 1985 by James and Suzanne Halliday and has since grown to become one of Australia's leading and most awarded small wineries. Situated in the picturesque Yarra Valley east of Melbourne, the steep close planted vineyards of Coldstream Hills have become a signature of the region. So too have its wines, which reflect regional character, consistency and style. Sourced from low yielding vineyards in the Lower and Upper Yarra Valley, all fruit is selectively picked prior to its delivery into the winery. It is made using a variety of handling and fermentation techniques, including the use of whole bunches. Each batch is then matured in seasoned and new oak for eight to nine months, prior to blending and bottling.

Yarra Valley is cooler than Bordeaux but warmer than Burgundy, and is one of Australia's most prominent cool-climate wine regions. Located approximately one-hour’s drive from Melbourne. The region is home to over 80 cellar doors. The area also features contemporary restaurants and luxury overnight accommodation and most recent additions of micro breweries and distilleries. The Yarra Valley soils are fertile and help produce elegant and textured Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

The 2020 vintage saw a warm start to Spring with above average rainfall led to good vegetative growth. Bunch numbers were average, but dry conditions in December appear to have checked berry development. Relatively mild to cool conditions ensued throughout the ripening period, allowing gradual flavour development and sugar accumulation. A sequence of rainfall events required extra vigilance in the vineyards, but fruit quality in the main was excellent. Yields were generally lower than average, with tiny bunches seen across many vineyard sites. Winery Notes