2022 Garagiste Merricks Pinot Noir

WINEMAKER: Barnaby Flanders
REGION: Mornington Peninsula, VIC
VARIETAL: Pinot Noir
VITICULTURE: Organic/Sustainable

Like the Merricks Chardonnay, the vines for this Pinot are 26 years old and sit on grey loams and red ferrosols, but here with a north-facing aspect. The whole bunch portion was lower than in its predecessor (25% as opposed to the 60% in the 2021 release). Due to dramatically reduced yields in 2022 (around 70%), there were simply fewer parcels to play with when it came to the whole-bunch component, and Flanders found the balance at a lower percentage. The winemaking was, in true Garagiste form, pretty hands-off: natural fermentation, gentle extraction and nine months in 25% new oak.

Although the stem component has been reduced its impact is still evident and, as always, is beautifully integrated. What strikes you most is the lovely balance between fruit and savoury character, with bright berries, perfumed florals, tilled earth and some cured meat flavours supporting a structure of sappy/crunchy acidity and juicy, enveloping tannins. It’s a handsomely perfumed and vibrant release and with layers of complexity still to unfold; if you can wait at least six months you will be rewarded. Purity, finesse, length and personality—this has got it all.